Cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase inhibitors, preparation and uses thereof

ABSTRACT

The invention concerns novel benzodiazepine derivatives and their uses in the field of therapeutics particularly for treating pathologies involving the activity of a cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase. It also concerns methods for preparing them and novel synthesis intermediates. The inventive compounds more particularly correspond to general formula (I):

[0001] The invention concerns novel benzodiazepine derivatives and their uses in the field of therapeutics particularly for treating pathologies involving the activity of a cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase. It also concerns methods for preparing them and novel synthesis intermediates.

[0002] The compounds whose synthesis is described in the present invention are novel and possess very interesting pharmacological properties: they are inhibitors of cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterases and more particularly of cAMP-phosphodiesterase type 4 (PDE4) and, as such, they have very interesting therapeutic applications.

[0003] The functions of most tissues are modulated by endogenous substances such as hormones, transmitters, etc. or by exogenous substances. The biological effect of some of these substances is transmitted inside the cell by enzymatic effectors, such as adenylate cyclase or guanylate cyclase. Stimulation of such enzymes results in an elevation of intracellular levels of cyclic AMP (cAMP) or cyclic GMP (cGMP), second messengers involved in regulating many cellular activities. These cyclic nucleotides are degraded by a family of enzymes—the phosphodiesterases (PDE)—comprising at least seven groups. One of them, PDE4, is present in many different tissues (heart, brain, vascular or tracheobronchial smooth muscle, etc.) and specifically hydrolyzes cyclic AMP.

[0004] By slowing down the degradation of cyclic AMP, the PDE4 inhibitors increase or maintain cAMP levels in cells, and find use particularly in the treatment of inflammatory disorders or pathologies of tracheobronchial smooth muscle, by combining both an anti-inflammatory effect and smooth muscle relaxation.

[0005] The applicant has now demonstrated that certain benzodiazepines or benzodiazepinones have inhibitory effects on cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterases, particularly inhibition of PDE4. The invention also describes novel compounds which show potent inhibitory activity towards PDE4, and preferentially display an excellent selectivity profile with respect to other PDE isoforms, in particular a weak action on PDE3. Moreover, the preferred compounds according to the invention possess anti-inflammatory properties that may be used in this respect to treat central or peripheral nervous system disorders, and advantageously are devoid of hypotensive or emetic effects.

[0006] More particularly, the invention has as its object compounds represented by general formula (I)

[0007] wherein:

[0008] either X represents an NR₄ group and Y represents a CR₆R₆′ group, R₄, R₆ and R₆′ being defined hereinafter,

[0009] or X represents a CR₄R₄′ group and Y represents an NR₆ group, R₄, R₄′ and R₆ being defined hereinafter,

[0010] Z represents an oxygen or sulfur atom.

[0011] R₁ is a (C₁-C₁₂) alkyl, (C₃-C₆) cycloalkyl, (C₆-C₁₈) aryl, (C₆-C₁₈)aryl(C₁-C₄)alkyl, (C₁-C₁₂)alkyl(C₆-C₁₈)aryl group, (C₅-C₁₈) heterocycle, aromatic or not, containing 1 to 3 heteroatoms, or an OR₂, SR₂ or NR₂R₃ group in which (i) R₂ and R₃, independently of each other, are selected in the group consisting of a hydrogen atom, a (C₁-C₆) alkyl, (C₃-C₆) cycloalkyl, (C₆-C₁₂) aryl group, and a (C₅-C₁₂) heterocycle, aromatic or not, containing 1 to 3 heteroatoms or, (ii) R₂ and R₃ together form a linear or branched hydrocarbon having from 2 to 6 carbon atoms, possibly containing one or more double bonds and/or possibly interrupted by an oxygen, sulfur or nitrogen atom;

[0012] R₄ and R₄′, which are the same or different, represent a (C₃-C₆) cycloalkyl, unsubstituted (C₆-C₁₈) aryl, (C₆-C₁₈)aryl(C₁-C₄)alkyl, (C₁-C₁₋₂)alkyl(C₆-C₁₈)aryl group or a (C₅-C₁₈) heterocycle, aromatic or not, containing 1 to 3 heteroatoms, and, when X is the group CR₄R₄′, R₄ and R₄′, which are the same or different, are selected in the group consisting of the hydrogen atom and a (C₁-C₁₂) alkyl, (C₆-C₁₈) aryl, (C₂-C₆) alkenyl, (C₂-C₆) alkynyl, NO₂, CF₃, CN, NR′R″, SR′, OR′, COOR′, CONR′R″ and NHCOR′R″group, R′ and R″, independently of each other, being selected in the group consisting of the hydrogen atom, a (C₁-C₆) alkyl, (C₁-C₆) alkoxy, (C₃-C₆) cycloalkyl, (C₆-C₁₂) aryl group, and a (C₅-C₁₂) heterocycle, aromatic or not, containing 1 to 3 heteroatoms;

[0013] R₆ and R₆′, which are the same or different, are selected in the group consisting of the hydrogen atom, (C₁-C₆) alkyl, (C₆-C₁₈) aryl, (C₆-C₁₈)aryl(C₁-C₄)alkyl, (C₁-C₁₋₂)alkyl(C₆-C₁₈)aryl, preferably a phenyl, benzyl group and a (C₁-C₆)alkylphenyl group;

[0014] R₇ and R₈, independently of each other, are selected in the group consisting of the hydrogen atom, a (C₁-C₁₂) alkyl group and an OR₂ group, R₂ being defined hereinabove, with the condition that R₇ and R₈ do not both represent a hydrogen atom, or R₇ and R₈ together form a linear or branched hydrocarbon chain having from 2 to 6 carbon atoms, possibly containing one or more double bonds and/or possibly interrupted by an oxygen, sulfur or nitrogen atom;

[0015] the alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, alkylaryl, aralkyl, cycloalkyl, aryl, phenyl, heterocycle groups and the hydrocarbon chain defined hereinabove possibly being substituted by one or more substituents, which are the same or different, preferably selected in the group consisting of a halogen atom, a (C₁-C₁₂) alkyl, (C₆-C₁₈) aryl, (C₂-C₆) alkenyl, (C₂-C₆) alkynyl, heterocycle, OH, ═O, NO₂, NR′R″, CN, CF₃, COR′, COOR′, (C₁-C₆)alkoxy, (di)(C₁-C₆)alkylamino, NHCOR′ and CONR′R″ group, in which R′ and R″ are defined as hereinabove,

[0016] and the salts thereof.

[0017] The invention also concerns pharmaceutical compositions comprising one or more compounds represented by general formula (I) such as defined hereinabove, and a pharmaceutically acceptable vehicle or excipient.

[0018] The invention further relates to the use of compounds represented by general formula (I) such as defined hereinabove for preparing a pharmaceutical composition designed to inhibit a cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase, particularly phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4). More particularly, the invention concerns the use of the hereinabove compounds for treating pathologies involving a deregulation of intracellular cyclic AMP levels.

[0019] In the context of the invention, the term “alkyl” designates a linear or branched hydrocarbon group advantageously containing from 1 to 12 carbon atoms, such as methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl, butyl, isobutyl, tert-butyl, pentyl, neopentyl, n-hexyl, n-decyl, n-dodecyl, etc. C₁-C₄ groups are preferred. The alkyl groups may be substituted by an aryl group such as defined hereinafter, in which case it is called an arylalkyl group. Benzyl and phenethyl are specific examples of arylalkyl groups.

[0020] The term “cycloalkyl” denotes a cyclic hydrocarbon system, which may advantageously contain from 3 to 6 carbon atoms and be mono- or poly-cyclic.

[0021] Examples include cyclopropyl and cyclohexyl groups in particular.

[0022] “Aryl” groups are mono-, bi- or tri-cyclic aromatic hydrocarbon systems, preferably monocyclic or bicyclic aromatic hydrocarbons containing from 6 to 18 carbon atoms, even more preferably 6 carbon atoms. Examples include phenyl, naphthyl and biphenyl groups.

[0023] “Heterocycle” groups denote hydrocarbon systems, aromatic or not, containing one or more cyclic heteroatoms. Preferably they are cyclic hydrocarbon systems containing from 5 to 18 carbon atoms and one or more cyclic heteroatoms, particularly from 1 to 3 or 4 cyclic heteroatoms chosen from among N, O and S. Preferred aromatic heterocyclic groups (heteroaryls) include in particular thienyl, benzothienyl, benzofuryl, naphthyl, pyridyl, pyrimidinyl, pyridazinyl, isoquinolinyl, morpholino, thiazolyl, furyl, pyranyl, pyrrolyl, 2H-pyrrolyl, imidazolyl, benzymidazolyl, pyrazolyl, isothiazolyl, isoxazolyl and indolyl groups. Among the preferred non-aromatic heterocyclic groups, piperidinyl and pyrrolidinyl groups are particular examples.

[0024] The aryl and heterocycle groups may be substituted by an OH function, an alkyl, alkenyl or alkynyl group. An aryl or a heterocycle substituted by an alkyl group is called an alkylaryl or alkylheterocycle group. Examples of alkylaryl groups include in particular tolyl, mesythyl and xylyl. An aryl or a heterocycle substituted by an alkenyl group is referred to as an alkenylaryl or alkenylheterocycle group. Examples of alkenylaryl groups include in particular the cinnamyl group. An aryl or a heterocycle substituted by an alkynyl group is called an alkynylaryl or alkynylheterocycle group.

[0025] The aryl and heterocycle groups may also be substituted by a group independently chosen from among aryl or heterocycle groups, themselves possibly substituted by one or more substituents chosen preferably from among a halogen atom and an NO₂, CN, CF₃, OR′, COR′, COOR′, alkoxy, NHCOR′ or CONR′R″ group, R′ and R″ being defined as hereinabove.

[0026] Specific examples of aryl and heterocycle groups substituted by an aryl or heterocycle group are the benzothienyl, benzofuryl, furylphenyl, benzyloxynaphthyl, pyridylphenyl, phenylphenyl and thienylphenyl groups. As noted, the hereinabove groups may be substituted. In this respect one example is the phenyl groups substituted by a phenyl group itself substituted by a halogen atom, an NO₂, CF₃, methoxy or methyl group.

[0027] “Alkenyl” groups are linear or branched hydrocarbon functions containing one or more double bonds, such as for instance the allyl group. They advantageously contain from 2 to 6 carbon atoms and, preferably, 1 or 2 double bonds. Alkenyl groups may be substituted by an aryl group such as defined hereinabove, in which case it is called an arylalkenyl group.

[0028] “Alkynyl” groups are linear or branched hydrocarbon functions containing one or more triple bonds, such as for instance the 3-(benzyloxy)prop-1-ynyl, phenylethynyl, prop-2-ynyl and tert-butyl-prop-2-ynylcarbamate groups. They advantageously contain from 2 to 6 carbon atoms and, preferably, 1 or 2 double bonds. Alkynyl groups may be substituted by an aryl group such as defined hereinabove, in which case it is called an arylalkynyl group.

[0029] “Alkoxy” groups correspond to the alkyl and cycloalkyl groups defined hereinabove linked to the nucleus by means of an —O— (ether) bond. Methoxy and ethoxy groups are especially preferred.

[0030] “Halogen” designates a fluorine, chlorine, bromine or iodine atom.

[0031] “Heteroatom” is an atom chosen from among O, N and S.

[0032] More particularly, the invention has as its object the compounds represented by general formula (I) hereinabove wherein X is a CR₄R₄′ group and Y is an NR₆ group.

[0033] Such compounds are represented by formula (II) below:

[0034] wherein R₁, R₄, R_(4′), R₆, R₇ and R₈ are defined as hereinabove. Such compounds possess inhibitory properties that are especially marked and preferential for phosphodiesterase 4.

[0035] A further specific object of the invention concerns compounds having general formula (I) hereinabove wherein X is the NR₄ group and Y is the CR₆R_(6′) group. Such compounds are represented by formula (III) below:

[0036] wherein R₁, R₄, R₆, R₆, R₇ and R₈ are defined as hereinabove. Such compounds display especially marked and preferential inhibition of phosphodiesterase 4.

[0037] Particular compounds according to the invention are those in which

[0038] Z is the oxygen atom and/or

[0039] R₇ and R₈, independently of each other, represent an OR₂ group wherein R₂ is a (C₁-C₆)alkyl group, preferably an ethyl or methyl group, and/or

[0040] R₇ represents a hydrogen atom and R₈ represents a halogen atom or vice versa, and/or

[0041] R₇ and R₈ each represent an ethoxy or methoxy group, and/or

[0042] R₆ and R₆′, which are the same or different, represent the hydrogen atom or a (C₁-C₆) alkyl group, and/or

[0043] R₆ represents the hydrogen atom or a (C₁-C₆) alkyl group and R₆′ is the hydrogen atom, and/or

[0044] X is the CR₄R₄′ group wherein R₄ and R₄′, which are the same or different, represent a (C₁-C₁₂) alkyl or (C₆-C₁₈)aryl(C₁-C₄)alkyl group, possibly substituted by one or more substituents, which are the same or different, chosen from among a halogen atom and an OH, ═O, NO₂, NH₂, CN, CF₃, COR′, COOR′, (C₁-C₆)alkoxy, (di)(C₁-C₆)alkylamino, NHCOR′ or CONR′R″ group, in which R′ and R″ are defined as hereinabove, and/or

[0045] R₄′ is the hydrogen atom, and/or

[0046] X is the CR₄R₄′ group in which R₄ represents a (C₁-C₁₂) alkyl or (C₆-C₁₈)aryl(C₁-C₄)alkyl group, more particularly benzyl, possibly substituted by one or more substituents, which are the same or different, selected in the group consisting of a halogen atom and an OH, ═O, NO₂, NH₂, CN, CF₃, COR′, COOR′, (C₁-C₆)alkoxy, (di)(C₁-C₆)alkylamino, NHCOR′ and CONR′R″ group, in which R′ and R″ are defined as hereinabove, and R₄′ is the hydrogen atom, and/or

[0047] X is the CR₄R₄ group in which R₄ and R₄′ are a hydrogen atom, and/or

[0048] R₁ is a (C₆-C₁₈) aryl group, more particularly phenyl, (C₆-C₁₈)aryl(C₁-C₄)alkyl, more particularly benzyl, (C₁-C₁₂)alkyl(C₆-C₁₈)aryl or a (C₅-C₁₈) heterocycle, aromatic or not, containing 1 to 3 heteroatoms, possibly substituted.

[0049] A specific family of compounds is represented by compounds having general formula (II) such as defined hereinabove wherein R₄ and R₄′ represent the hydrogen atom.

[0050] A specific family of compounds is represented by compounds having the general formula (II) such as defined hereinabove wherein R₇ and R₈ together form a hydrocarbon chain, such as for example the chain —O—CH₂—CH₂—O—.

[0051] Another family comprises compounds represented by general formula (I) wherein X is the CR₄R₄′ group, Y is the NR₆ group, Z is the oxygen atom, R₇ and R₈ represent, independently of each other, an OR₂ group in which R₂ is a (C₁-C₆) alkyl group, R₆ represents the hydrogen atom or a (C₁-C₆) alkyl group and R₄ and R₄′ represent the hydrogen atom.

[0052] Another family comprises compounds represented by general formula (I) wherein X is the CR₄R₄′ group, Y is the NR₆ group, Z is the oxygen atom, R₇ represents a hydrogen atom and R₈ represents a halogen atom or vice versa.

[0053] Another family comprises compounds represented by general formula (I) wherein X is the NR₄ group, Y is the CR₆R₆ group, Z is the oxygen atom, R₇ and R₈ represent, independently of each other, an OR₂ group in which R₂ is a (C₁-C₆) alkyl group, R₆ and R₁₆, which are the same or different, represent the hydrogen atom or a (C₁-C₆) alkyl group and R₄ represents a (C₁-C₁₂) alkyl or (C₆-C₁₈)aryl(C₁-C₄)alkyl group, possibly substituted by one or more substituents, which are the same or different, chosen from among a halogen atom and an OH, ═O, NO₂, NH₂, CN, CF₃, COR′, COOR′, (C₁-C₆)alkoxy, (di)(C₁-C₆)alkylamino, NHCOR′ or CONR′R″group, in which R′ and R″ are defined as hereinabove.

[0054] Another family comprises compounds having general formula (I) wherein X is the CR₄R₄′ group, Y is the NR₆ group, Z is the oxygen atom, R₇ represents a hydrogen atom and R₈ represents an OR₂ function in which R₂ is a (C₁-C₆) alkyl group.

[0055] In a preferred manner, in the compounds represented by general formula (I), (II) and (III) according to the invention and in the specific families described hereinabove, the groups R₇ and R₈ represent, independently of each other, a methoxy or ethoxy group, more preferably they both represent a methoxy or ethoxy group.

[0056] In a preferred manner, in the compounds represented by general formula (I), (II) and (III) according to the invention and in the specific families described hereinabove, the R₆ and R₆′ groups, which are the same or different, represent a hydrogen atom or a methyl, ethyl or n-propyl group. In an especially advantageous variant, in the compounds represented by general formula (I), (II) and (III) according to the invention and in the specific families described hereinabove the R₆ group represents a hydrogen atom or a methyl, ethyl or n-propyl group and the R₆′ group is a hydrogen atom. In another particularly advantageous variant, in the compounds represented by general formula (I), (II) and (III) according to the invention and in the specific families described hereinabove, the R₆ and R₆′ groups, which are the same or different, represent a methyl or ethyl group.

[0057] In the compounds represented by general formula (I), (II) and (III) according to the invention and in the specific families described hereinabove, preferred examples are those wherein R₄′ is the hydrogen atom and, when R₄ is not the hydrogen atom, R₄ more preferably represents a methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, n-dodecyl or benzyl group.

[0058] As noted, in the compounds represented by general formula (I), (II) and (III) according to the invention and in the specific families described hereinabove, R₁ advantageously represents a (C₆-C₁₈) aryl, (C₆-C₁₈)aryl(C₁-C₄)alkyl, (C₁-C₁₋₂)alkyl(C₆-C₁₈)aryl group or a (C₅-C₁₈) heterocycle, aromatic or not, containing 1 to 3 heteroatoms, said group or heterocycle possibly being substituted.

[0059] According to a first variant of the invention, R₁ is a phenyl group, particularly a substituted phenyl, preferably a phenyl group substituted by:

[0060] (a) one or more halogen atoms, particularly chlorine, bromine or iodine, preferably chlorine, or

[0061] (b) one or more OR′ groups, particularly methoxy or ethoxy, or

[0062] (c) a COR′ group, particularly acetyl, or

[0063] (d) a trifluoromethyl group, or

[0064] (e) an alkyl or alkynyl group, for example heptinyl, or

[0065] (f) an aryl group or heterocycle, particularly a phenyl, furyl, pyridyl or thienyl group, said aryl group or heterocycle itself possibly being substituted by one or more groups chosen preferably from among groups (a)-(e).

[0066] According to another specific variant of the invention, R₁ is an aromatic heterocycle, particularly naphthyl, thienyl, furyl, indolyl or pyridyl, possibly substituted by one or more groups chosen preferably from among the groups (a)-(f) hereinabove. In a specific variant, R₁ is a naphthyl group possibly substituted by one or more groups chosen from among the groups (a)-(f) hereinabove.

[0067] According to a further specific variant of the invention, R₁ is a non-aromatic heterocycle, particularly piperidinyl or isoquinolinyl, possibly substituted by one or more groups chosen preferably from among the groups (a)-(f) hereinabove.

[0068] Specific examples of R₁ groups that are particularly advantageous for carrying out the invention are the 4-chlorophenyl, 3,4-dichlorophenyl, 2-naphthyl, 2-benzo[b]thienyl, 4-(2-furyl)phenyl, 3-pyridyl and 3-trifluoromethylphenyl groups.

[0069] The following compounds are especially preferred:

[0070] 7,8-dimethoxy-1-(2-naphthyl)-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one.

[0071] 1-(4-chlorophenyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one.

[0072] 1-(2-benzo[b]thienyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one.

[0073] 1-[4-(2-furyl)phenyl]-7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one.

[0074] 1-(2-benzo[b]thienyl)-7,8-diethoxy-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one.

[0075] 1-(2-benzo[b]thienyl)-7,8-diethoxy-5-ethyl-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one.

[0076] 1-(4-chlorophenyl)-7,8-diethoxy-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one.

[0077] 5-(4-chlorophenyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0078] Other particular compounds in the context of the invention are the following compounds:

[0079] 7,8-dimethoxy-1-phenyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one.

[0080] 1-(2-benzo[b]thienyl)-7,8-diethoxy-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one.

[0081] 1-(2-benzo[b]thienyl)-7,8-diethoxy-5-n-propyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one.

[0082] 7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-1-(1-naphthyl)-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one.

[0083] 3-benzyl-7,8-dimethoxy-1-phenyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one.

[0084] 3-dodecyl-7,8-dimethoxy-1-phenyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one.

[0085] 7,8-dimethoxy-3-(12-methoxy-12-oxododecyl)-1-phenyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one.

[0086] 3-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-1-phenyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one.

[0087] 7,8-dimethoxy-1-phenyl-3-n-propyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one.

[0088] 1-(4-iodophenyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one.

[0089] 7,8-dimethoxy-1-[4-(2-methoxyphenyl)phenyl]-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one.

[0090] 7,8-dimethoxy-1-[4-(3-methoxyphenyl)phenyl]-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one.

[0091] 1-[4-(3-acetylphenyl)phenyl]-7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one.

[0092] 7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-1 [4-(3-pyridyl)phenyl]-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one.

[0093] 1-[4-(4-acetylphenyl)phenyl]-7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one.

[0094] 1-[4-(3-acetamidophenyl)phenyl]-7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one.

[0095] 1-(4-bromophenyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one.

[0096] 7,8-dimethoxy-1-[4-(4-methoxyphenyl)phenyl]-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one.

[0097] 1-{4-[3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]phenyl}-7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one.

[0098] 7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-1-[4-(2-methylphenyl)phenyl]-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one.

[0099] 7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-1-[4-(3-methylphenyl)phenyl]-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one.

[0100] 7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-1-[4-(4-methylphenyl)phenyl]-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one.

[0101] 1-[4-(4-chlorophenyl)phenyl]-7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one.

[0102] 7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-1-[4-(2-thienyl)phenyl]-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one.

[0103] 1-{4-[3,5-bis-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]phenyl}-7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one.

[0104] 1-[4-(heptyn-1-yl)phenyl]-7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one.

[0105] 7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-1-[4-(3-nitrophenyl)phenyl]-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one.

[0106] 1-(2-benzo[b]thienyl)-7,8-diethoxy-3-ethyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one.

[0107] 1-(2-benzo[b]thienyl)-7,8-diethoxy-3-methyl-5-n-propyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one.

[0108] 3,5-dibenzyl-7,8-dimethoxy-1-phenyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one.

[0109] 7,8-dimethoxy-1-phenyl-3-(3-hydroxypropyl)-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one.

[0110] 7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0111] 7,8-dimethoxy-5-(3,4-dimethoxyphenyl)-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0112] 5-(2-benzo[b]thienyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0113] 5-(2-benzo[b]furyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0114] 5-(2-furyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0115] 5-(4-acetylphenyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0116] 7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-5-(2-thienyl)-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0117] 7,8-dimethoxy-5-(3-methoxyphenyl)-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0118] 7,8-dimethoxy-5-(2-methoxyphenyl)-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0119] 5-(5-indolyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0120] 5-(6-benzyloxy-2-naphthyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0121] 7,8-dimethoxy-5-(6-methoxy-2-naphthyl)-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0122] 5-(2-indolyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0123] 7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-5-(piperidin-1-yl)-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0124] 7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-5-(2-methylphenyl)-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0125] 7,8-dimethoxy-5-(4-methoxyphenyl)-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0126] 5-(1,1′-biphenyl-3-yl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0127] 5-(4-bromophenyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0128] 5-(4-bromophenyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0129] 8-bromo-5-(4-bromophenyl)-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0130] 7-iodo-5-[3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0131] 7-methoxy-5-[3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0132] 7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0133] 1-benzyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0134] 7,8-diethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0135] 1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0136] 7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1-propyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0137] 7,8-diethoxy-1-methyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0138] 7,8-diethoxy-1-ethyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0139] ethyl (7,8-diethoxy-2-oxo-5-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-1-yl)acetate.

[0140] 10-phenyl-2,3,6,8-tetrahydro-7H-[1,4] dioxino [2,3-h][1,4]benzodiazepin-7-one.

[0141] 1-benzyl-7,8-diethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0142] 7,8-diethoxy-3-methyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0143] 3-benzyl-7,8-diethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0144] 1-ethyl-7,8-dihydroxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H— 1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0145] 5-(4-bromophenyl)-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0146] 5-(3-bromophenyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0147] 5-(3-bromophenyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0148] 5-(3-bromophenyl)-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0149] 5-{4-[3-(benzyloxy)prop-1-ynyl]phenyl}-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0150] tert-butyl 3-[4-(1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-5-yl)phenyl]prop-2-ynyl carbamate.

[0151] 5-(1,1′-biphenyl-4-yl)-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0152] 3-(4-chlorobenzyl)-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0153] 1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-[4-(phenylethynyl)phenyl]-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0154] 3-allyl-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0155] 1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-3-prop-2-ynyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0156] 1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-[4-(2-phenylethyl)phenyl]-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0157] ethyl (1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-2-oxo-5-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-3-yl)acetate.

[0158] 1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-[3-(phenylethynyl)phenyl]-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0159] 5-(2-bromophenyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0160] (1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-2-oxo-5-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-3-yl)acetonitrile.

[0161] 3-(2-bromobenzyl)-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0162] 3-(4-bromobenzyl)-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0163] 3-[(3-bromophenyl)(hydroxy)methyl]-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0164] 3-(3-bromobenzyl)-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0165] 3-(1,1′-biphenyl-4-ylmethyl)-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0166] 3-(1-benzyl-4-hydroxypiperidin-4-yl)-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0167] 3-(4-chlorobenzyl)-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0168] 3-[(1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-2-oxo-5-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-3-yl)methyl]benzonitrile.

[0169] 3-benzyl-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0170] 1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-3-(2-methoxybenzyl)-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0171] 3-[(1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-2-oxo-5-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-3-yl)methyl]benzamide.

[0172] 3-[3-(aminomethyl)benzyl]-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0173] 3-(1,1′-biphenyl-3-ylmethyl)-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0174] 3-benzyl-7,8-diethoxy-1-ethyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0175] 2-(1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-2-oxo-5-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-3-yl)acetamide.

[0176] 3-(2-chlorobenzyl)-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0177] 1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-3-(2-methylbenzyl)-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0178] 8-ethoxy-7-methoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0179] 8-ethoxy-7-methoxy-1-methyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0180] 1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-3-[3-(trifluoromethyl)benzyl]-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0181] 1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-3-(3-methoxybenzyl)-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0182] 1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-3-(4-methylbenzyl)-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0183] 3-[1,2-bis(4-bromophenyl)ethyl]-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0184] 3-[(8-ethoxy-7-methoxy-1-methyl-2-oxo-5-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-3-yl)methyl]benzonitrile.

[0185] 2-[(8-ethoxy-7-methoxy-1-methyl-2-oxo-5-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-3-yl)methyl]benzonitrile.

[0186] 3-[(8-ethoxy-7-methoxy-1-methyl-2-oxo-5-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-3-yl)methyl]benzamide.

[0187] 8-methoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0188] 7-methoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0189] 7-methoxy-1-methyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0190] 8-methoxy-1-methyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0191] 7,8-dimethoxy-5-(4-fluorophenyl)-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0192] 7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-5-(4-pyridyl)-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0193] 7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-5-(3,5 bis trifluoromethylphenyl)-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0194] 7,8-dimethoxy-5-(4-N,N-dimethylaminophenyl)-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0195] 7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-5-[(E)-2-phenylethenyl]-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0196] 7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-5-(2-phenylethynyl)-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0197] 7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-5-(N-tetrahydro-1,2,3,4-isoquinolyl)-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0198] 7,8-dimethoxy-3-isobutyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0199] 3-benzyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0200] 7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0201] 7,8-dimethoxy-3-(1H-imidazol-4-ylmethyl)-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0202] 7,8-dimethoxy-3-(1H-indol-3-ylmethyl)-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0203] 7,8-dimethoxy-3-(2-methylthioethyl)-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0204] (S) 3-benzyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0205] (S)-3-benzyl-7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0206] 7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-5-(2-phenylethyl)-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0207] (7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-3-yl)benzyl(S)-butylcarbamate.

[0208] (S)-3-(4-aminobutyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0209] (S)-N-[4-(7,8-dimethoxy-2-oxo-5-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-3-yl)butyl]acetamide.

[0210] N-[4-(7,8-dimethoxy-2-oxo-5-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-3-yl)butyl]guanidinium(S)-bis trifluoroacetate.

[0211] 7,8-dimethoxy-1-ethyl-3-(2-nitrobenzyl)-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0212] 3-(3,5-dibromobenzyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-ethyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0213] 7,8-dimethoxy-3-(diphenylhydroxymethyl)-1-ethyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0214] 7,8-dimethoxy-1-ethyl-3-(E-3-phenylpropen-2yl)-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0215] 7,8-dimethoxy-1-ethyl-3-(2-aminobenzyl)-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0216] 7,8-dimethoxy-1-(2-hydroxyethyl)-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0217] 3-(2-cyanobenzyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-ethyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0218] N-[2-(7,8-dimethoxy-2-oxo-5-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-3-yl)benzyl]acetamide.

[0219] 3-(2-aminomethylbenzyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-ethyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0220] [(7,8-dimethoxy-1-ethyl-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-3-yl)benz-2-yl]carboxamide.

[0221] N-[2-(7,8-dimethoxy-2-oxo-5-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-3-yl)benzyl]methylacetamide.

[0222] 7,8-dimethoxy-3,5-diphenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0223] 3-(2,4-dichlorobenzyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-ethyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0224] 3-(2,5-dichlorobenzyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-ethyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0225] 3,5-diphenyl-8-ethoxy-7-methoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0226] 3-benzyl-8-ethoxy-7-methoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0227] 3-benzyl-8-ethoxy-1-ethyl-7-methoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0228] 3,5-diphenyl-8-ethoxy-1-ethyl-7-methoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0229] 5-phenyl-7-ethoxy-8-methoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one.

[0230] The compounds according to the invention may be in the form of salts, particularly acid or base salts, preferably compatible with pharmaceutical use. Among the pharmaceutically acceptable acids, non-limiting examples include hydrochloric, hydrobromic, sulfuric, phosphoric, acetic, trifluoroacetic, lactic, pyruvic, malonic, succinic, glutaric, fumaric, tartric, maleic, citric, ascorbic, methane or ethane sulfonic, camphoric acids, etc. Among the pharmaceutically acceptable bases, non-limiting examples include sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, triethylamine, tert-butylamine, etc.

[0231] The invention also has as its object a composition comprising a compound such as defined hereinabove and a pharmaceutically acceptable vehicle or excipient.

[0232] The compounds or compositions of the invention may be administered in different ways and in different forms. For instance, they may be administered systemically, by the oral route, by inhalation or by injection, such as for example by the intravenous, intramuscular, subcutaneous, transdermal, intra-arterial route, etc., the intravenous, intramuscular, subcutaneous, oral and inhalation routes being preferred.

[0233] For injections, the compounds are generally prepared in the form of liquid suspensions, which may be injected through syringes or by infusion, for instance. In this respect, the compounds are generally dissolved in pharmaceutically compatible saline, physiologic, isotonic, buffered solutions, and the like, known to those skilled in the art. For instance, the compositions may contain one or more agents or vehicles chosen from among dispersives, solubilizers, stabilizers, preservatives, and the like. Agents or vehicles that may be used in the liquid and/or injectable formulations comprise in particular methylcellulose, hydroxymethylcellulose, carboxymethylcellulose, polysorbate 80, mannitol, gelatin, lactose, vegetable oils, acacia, and the like.

[0234] The compounds may also be administered in the form of gels, oils, tablets, suppositories, powders, capsules, gelules, aerosols, and the like, possibly by means of pharmaceutical forms or devices allowing extended and/or delayed release. For this type of formulation, an agent such as cellulose, carbonates or starches is advantageously used.

[0235] It is understood that the injection rate and/or injected dose may be adapted by those skilled in the art according to the patient, the pathology, the mode of administration, etc. Typically, the compounds are administered at doses ranging from 0.1 μg to 100 mg/kg of body weight, more generally from 0.01 to 10 mg/kg, typically between 0.1 and 10 mg/kg. Furthermore, repeated injections may be given, as the case may be. In addition, in the case of chronic treatments delayed or sustained release systems may be advantageous.

[0236] The compounds according to the invention may act on different cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterases, particularly PDE4, and may also be active on certain PDE subtypes.

[0237] For instance, four subtypes of PDE4 have been identified, named PDE4A-D. The compounds according to the invention may display specific biological properties according to the PDE4 subtype affected. Thus, the inventive compounds may be (selective) inhibitors of PDE-4A, PDE-4B, PDE-4C and/or PDE-4D. The compounds of the invention which inhibit PDE-4B are especially interesting for treating the inflammatory component of depression, psychiatric disorders or obesity, for example.

[0238] The PDE4 inhibitor compounds according to the invention are of particular interest for treating pathologies involving bronchial inflammation and relaxation, and more particularly asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, but also other pathologies such as rhinitis, acute respiratory distress syndrome, allergy, skin disorders, such as dermatitis, psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, autoimmune diseases, different forms of sclerosis (particularly multiple sclerosis), dyskinesias, glomerulonephritis, osteoarthritis, cancer, septic shock, AIDS or obesity.

[0239] The compounds of the invention are also of particular interest for treating inflammatory disorders of the central nervous system, such as, more specifically, for treating an inflammatory disorder chosen from among depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, attention deficit disorder, fibromyalgia, epilepsy, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, multiple sclerosis, and Lewy body dementia.

[0240] The invention also finds use for treating inflammatory disorders such as Crohn's disease.

[0241] A particular object of the invention therefore concerns using the compounds such as described hereinabove for preparing a medicament for treating inflammatory disorders of the nervous system, particularly central, which are chronic or acute.

[0242] A more particular object concerns using the compounds such as described hereinabove for preparing a medicament for treating inflammatory disorders of the central nervous system (e.g., neuroinflammation).

[0243] In the context of the invention, the term treatment denotes either a preventive or a curative treatment, which may be used alone or in combination with other agents or treatments. Moreover, it may be a treatment of chronic or acute disorders.

[0244] The present invention also has as its object the use of the described compounds as anti-inflammatory agents, for instance for treating osteoporosis or rheumatoid arthritis.

[0245] The preferred compounds of the invention advantageously display potent inhibitory activity towards one or more PDE4 subtypes. The preferred compounds of the invention further display an advantageous selectivity profile, particularly weak activity with respect to PDE3.

[0246] The compounds of the invention may be prepared from commercially available products, by using a combination of chemical reactions known to those skilled in the art.

[0247]FIGS. 1 and 2 depict the synthetic reaction routes of compounds represented by formula (I).

[0248] In this respect, according to a first method, the compounds represented by general formula (III) according to the invention wherein Z is an oxygen atom may be obtained from a compound represented by formula (VI)

[0249] wherein R₁ R₆, R₆, R₇ and R₈ are defined as hereinabove, by reaction with an alkyl halogenide in the presence of potassium carbonate at room temperature. Preferably, the reaction is carried out in a polar aprotic solvent, DMF for example.

[0250] The compounds represented by general formula (VI) may be prepared by a method comprising the following steps:

[0251] a) reacting a compound represented by general formula (IV)

[0252]  wherein R₆, R_(6′), R₇ and R₈ are defined as hereinabove, with a compound containing an acyl group having the formula R₁CO so as to obtain a compound represented by formula (V)

[0253]  wherein R₁, R₆, R_(6′), R₇ and R₈ are defined as hereinabove;

[0254] b) reacting a compound represented by formula (V) with hydrazine so as to obtain a compound represented by formula (VI) wherien R₁, R₆, R_(6′), R₇ and R₈ are defined as hereinabove.

[0255] The acylating agent in step a) is preferably an acyl halogenide, particularly an acyl chloride. The reaction is advantageously carried out in the presence of a Lewis acid such as SnCl₄, in an inert solvent at room temperature. Solvents may be exemplified by hydrocarbons and their halogenated derivatives, for instance CHCl₃. When the reaction is complete, the resulting product is taken up in alcohol, methanol for example, and the reaction is continued at room temperature.

[0256] Step b) is advantageously carried out in the presence of hydrazine hydrate, for example in an alcohol, at a temperature comprised between 100 and 150° C., preferably at around 150° C., in a sealed tube for a time period ranging from 3 to 10 hours, preferably approximately 3 hours, and continued in the presence of an acid, for example acetic acid under ethanol reflux for 20 to 60 minutes.

[0257] The compounds represented by general formula (III) according to the invention may also be obtained directly from a compound represented by general formula (V) such as defined hereinabove, by reaction in the presence of a substituted hydrazine, for example methylhydrazine. Such reaction is advantageously carried out in an alcohol, ethanol for example, at a temperature comprised between 100 and 150° C., preferably at around 150° C., in a sealed tube for a time period ranging from 3 to 10 hours, preferably approximately 3 hours, and continued in the presence of an acid, for example acetic acid under ethanol reflux for 20 to 60 minutes.

[0258] In another embodiment, the compounds represented by general formula (III) according to the invention in which Z is an oxygen atom may be prepared from a compound represented by general formula (XIV)

[0259] wherein R₄, R₆, R_(6′), R₇ and R₈ are defined as hereinabove and G is an activator group such as a halogen (Cl or Br for example) or an O-triflate group, by a palladium coupling reaction in the presence of boronic, alcyn-1-yl acid or ester or organometallic acid or ester such as organozincics or organostannans. When G is a halogen atom, compound (III) may also be prepared by a substitution reaction in the presence of a nucleophilic agent, such as an amine for example, in ethanol.

[0260] The compounds represented by general formula (XIV) may be obtained by a method comprising:

[0261] reacting a compound represented by general formula (VII) as illustrated in FIG. 1 wherein R₆, R_(6′), R₇ and R₈ are defined as hereinabove in the presence of paraformaldehyde, preferably by heating in acidic medium, to give a compound represented by general formula (VIII) such as illustrated in FIG. 1;

[0262] reacting a compound represented by general formula (VIII) in the presence of KMnO₄, followed by heating in an alcohol, to give a compound represented by general formula (IX) such as illustrated in FIG. 1 wherein R₆, R_(6′), R₇ and R₈ are defined as hereinabove;

[0263] heating under reflux the compound represented by general formula (IX) in acetyl chloride to give a compound represented by general formula (X) such as illustrated in FIG. 1 wherein R₆, R_(6′), R₇ and R₈ are defined as hereinabove;

[0264] reacting a compound represented by general formula (X) in the presence of hydrazine hydrate, preferably in ethanol, to give a compound represented by general formula (XI) such as illustrated in FIG. 1 wherein R₆, R_(6′), R₇ and R₈ are defined as hereinabove;

[0265] reacting a compound represented by general formula (XI) in the presence of AcOH at a temperature comprised between 50 and 150° C. to give a compound represented by general formula (XII) such as illustrated in FIG. 1 wherein R₆, R_(6′), R₇ and R₈ are defined as hereinabove;

[0266] reacting a compound represented by general formula (XII) in the presence of potassium carbonate and methyl iodide, preferably at room temperature in a solvent of the DMF type, to give a compound represented by general formula (XIII) such as illustrated in FIG. 1 wherein R₄, R₆, R_(6′), R₇ and R₈ are defined as hereinabove; and

[0267] reacting a compound represented by general formula (XIII) in the presence of dimethylaniline and phosphorus oxyhalogenide (for example POCl₃ or POBr₃), at a temperature comprised between 80 and 150° C., preferably in anhydrous CHCl₃ medium, to give a compound represented by general formula (XIV) such as illustrated in FIG. 1 wherein R₄, R₆, R_(6′), R₇, R₈ and G are defined as hereinabove; or reacting a compound represented by general formula (XIII) with triflic anhydride in the presence of a base, for example n-BuLi in an anhydrous aprotic organic solvent, to give a compound represented by general formula (XIV) such as illustrated in FIG. 1 wherein R₄, R₆, R_(6′), R₇ and R₈ are defined as hereinabove and G is a triflate group.

[0268] The compounds represented by formula (III) in which Z is a sulfur atom are obtained from compounds having formula (III) in which Z is an oxygen atom by reaction with Lawesson reagent in toluene under reflux.

[0269] The compounds represented by general formula (II) according to the invention in which Z is an oxygen atom may be prepared from a compound represented by general formula (XVIII):

[0270] wherein R₄, R_(4′), R₆, R₇, R₈ and G are defined as hereinabove, by reacting with an acid compound of group R₁ in the presence of a palladium catalyst, such as illustrated in FIG. 2. The reaction is advantageously carried out in a solvent of the type DMF at a temperature comprised between 80 and 150° C.

[0271] The compounds represented by general formula (XVIII) may be obtained by a method such as illustrated in FIG. 2 and comprising:

[0272] reacting a compound represented by general formula (XV) wherein R₇ and R₈ are defined as hereinabove:

[0273] in the presence of an alkyl halogenide, preferably in a solvent of the DMF type in the presence of NaH, to form a compound represented by general formula (XVI) wherein R R₇ and R₈ are defined as hereinabove,

[0274] heating under reflux the compound represented by general formula (XVI) in the presence of α-aminoacid ester hydrochloride and pyridine, followed by cycle formation in acidic medium, for example in the presence of acetic acid, at a temperature comprised between 100 and 150° C., to form a compound represented by general formula (XVII) wherein R₄, R_(4′), R₆, R₇ and R₈ are defined as hereinabove,

[0275] reacting the compound represented by general formula (XVII) in the presence of dimethylaniline (or dimethylaminopyridine) and phosphorus oxyhalogenide (preferably POCl₃ or POBr₃), preferably at a temperature comprised between 80 and 150° C. in anhydrous CHCl₃ medium and in a sealed tube, to form a compound represented by general formula (XVIII) wherein R₄, R₄, R₆, R₇ and R₈ are defined as hereinabove and G is Cl or Br.

[0276] The compounds represented by formula (II) in which Z is a sulfur atom may be obtained from compounds represented by formula (II) in which Z is an oxygen atom by reaction with Lawesson reagent in toluene under reflux.

[0277] The compounds represented by general formula (II) according to the invention in which Z is an oxygen atom may also be prepared from a compound represented by general formula (XXII):

[0278] wherein R₁, R₄, R₇, R₈, are defined as hereinabove, by reaction with an alkyl halogenide, preferably in a solvent of the type DMF or THF in the presence of a base, of the type NaH or K₂CO₃, preferably at room temperature (18-25° C.).

[0279] The compounds represented by general formula (XXII) may be obtained by a method comprising:

[0280] reacting a compound represented by general formula (XIX) in which R₇ and R₈ are defined as hereinabove:

[0281] in the presence of hydrogen and a palladium catalyst in methanol to form a compound represented by general formula (XX) wherein R₇ and R₈ are defined as hereinabove,

[0282] heating under reflux the compound represented by general formula (XX) in the presence of Lewis acids, of the type BCl₃, AlCl₃, and a nitrile having general formula R₁—CN, in a halogenated solvent (C₂H₄Cl₂, CHCl₃), to form a compound represented by general formula (XXI) wherein R₁, R₇′, R₈, are defined as hereinabove,

[0283] heating under reflux the compound represented by general formula (XXI), in the presence of a amino-acid ester hydrochloride substituted or not on the a carbon and which may be a racemic mixture or a pure enantiomer, and pyridine at a temperature comprised between 100 and 150° C. to form a compound represented by general formula (XXII) wherein R₁, R₄, R₇, R₈ are defined as hereinabove (the molecules XXI and XXII were obtained by the method described in the reference: Yves Pascal, Charles R.

[0284] Andrianjara, Eric Auclair, Nadine Avenel, Bernadette Bertin, Alain Calvet, Frederic Feru, Sophie Lardon, Indres Moodley, Malika Ouagued, Adrian Payne, Marie Pierre Pruniaux, and Corinne Szilagyi, Bioorganic and Medicinal Chemistry Letters, 2000, 10 35-38).

[0285] The invention is illustrated by the following examples, which are given for purposes of illustration and not by way of limitation. FIGS. 1 and 2 depict the synthetic routes of the inventive compounds.

EXAMPLE 1 Synthesis of Compounds Represented by Formula III According to the Invention by a First Route

[0286] 1.1. Synthesis of intermediates represented by formula V

[0287] The following compounds were synthesized:

[0288] 4,5-dimethoxy-2-(1-naphthoyl)phenyl methyl acetate, Vaa.

[0289] 2-(2-benzo[b]thienylcarbonyl)-4,5-dimethoxyphenyl methyl acetate, Vab.

[0290] 2-benzoyl-4,5-dimethoxyphenyl methyl acetate, Vac.

[0291] 2-(4-iodobenzoyl)-4,5-dimethoxyphenyl methyl acetate, Vad.

[0292] 2-(4-bromobenzoyl)-4,5-dimethoxyphenyl methyl aceetate, Vae.

[0293] 2-(2-benzo[b]thienylcarbonyl)-4,5-diethoxyphenyl ethyl acetate, Vaf.

[0294] 2-[2-(2-benzo[b]thienylcarbonyl)-4,5-diethoxyphenyl]ethyl valerate, Vag.

[0295] 2-[2-(2-benzo[b]thienyl)carbonyl]-4,5-diethoxypeenyl]ethyl butyrate, Vah.

[0296] 2-[2-(2-benzo[b]thienylcarbonyl)-4,5-dimethoxyphenyl]-2,2-dimethyl methyl acetate; Vai.

[0297] 4,5-dimethoxy-2-(1-naphthoyl)phenyl methyl acetate, Vaa.

[0298] To a solution of 315 mg (1.5 mmol) of 3,4-dimethoxyphenyl methyl acetate in 5 ml of anhydrous CHCl₃, add at 0° C. and under an inert atmosphere 452 μl (3 mmol) of 1-naphthoyl chloride. Add dropwise 351 μl of SnCl₄. Allow to return to room temperature.

[0299] After 6 hours at room temperature, evaporate to dryness. Add 10 ml of MeOH. Stir at room temperature for 30 minutes. Evaporate to dryness. Add 7 ml of iced H₂O. Allow to crystallize at 0° C. for 1 hour. Filter. Wash twice with 1 ml of H₂O. Yield: 37%. The product is used as is for the subsequent reactions.

[0300] 2-(2-benzo[b]thienylcarbonyl)-4,5-dimethoxyphenyl methyl acetate, Vab.

[0301] By replacing 1-naphthoyl chloride in example Vaa by 2-benzo[b]thiophene carbonyl chloride and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 58%. ¹H-NMR (200 MHz, CDCl₃): d 3.63 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.88 (s, 2H, CH₂), 3.91 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.02 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 6.92 (s, 1H Ar), 7.26 (s, 1H Ar), 7.41-7.54 (m, 2H Ar), 7.81 (s, 1H Ar), 7.88-7.98 (m, 2H Ar).

[0302] 2-benzoyl-4,5-dimethoxyphenyl methyl acetate, Vac.

[0303] By replacing 1-naphthoyl chloride in example Vaa by benzoyl chloride and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 85%.

[0304] 2-(4-iodobenzoyl)4,5-dimethoxyphenyl methyl aceetate, Vad.

[0305] By replacing 1-naphthoyl chloride in example Vaa by 4-iodobenzoyl chloride and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 67%.

[0306] 2-(4-bromobenzoyl)4,5-dimethoxyphenyl methyl acetate, Vae.

[0307] By replacing 1-naphthoyl chloride in example Vaa by 4-bromobenzoyl chloride and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 10%. ¹H-NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃): δ 3.62 (s, 3H, CH₃), 3.80 (s, 3H, CH₃), 3.85 (s, 2H, CH₂), 3.97 (s, 3H, CH₃), 6.85 (s, 1H Ar), 6.90 (s, 1H Ar), 7.60-7.69 (m, 4H Ar).

[0308] 2-(2-benzo[b]thienylcarbonyl)-4,5-diethoxyphenyl ethyl acetate, Vaf.

[0309] By replacing 3,4-dimethoxyphenyl methyl acetate in example Vab by 3,4-diethoxyphenyl ethyl acetate and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 71%. ¹H-NMR (200 MHz, CDCl₃): d 1.12 (t, J=7,1, 3H, CH₃), 1.41-1.55 (m, 6H, 2×CH₃), 3.60 (s, 2H, CH₂CO), 4.00-4.26 (m, 6H, 3×CH₂), 6.89 (s, 1H Ar), 7.24 (s, 1H Ar), 7.41-7.53 (m, 2H Ar), 7.77 (s, 1H Ar), 7.85-7.94 (m, 2H Ar).

[0310] 2-[2-(2-benzo[b]thienylcarbonyl)-4,5-diethoxyphenyl]ethyl valerate, Vag.

[0311] By replacing 3,4-dimethoxyphenyl methyl acetate in example Vab by 2-(3,4-diethoxyphenyl) ethyl valerate and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 61%.

[0312] 2-[2-(2-benzo[b]thienyl)carbonyl]-4,5-diethoxyphenyl]ethyl butyrate, Vah.

[0313] By replacing 3,4-dimethoxyphenyl methyl acetate in example Vab by 2-(3,4-diethoxyphenyl)ethyl butyrate and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 46%.

[0314] 2-[2-(2-benzolblthienylcarbonyl)-4,5-dimethoxyphenyl]-2,2-dimethyl methyl acetate, Vai.

[0315] By replacing 3,4-dimethoxyphenyl methyl acetate in example Vab by 2-(3,4-dimethoxyphenyl)-2,2-dimethyl methyl acetate and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 43%.

[0316] 1.2. Synthesis of Compounds Represented by Formula VI

[0317] The following compounds were synthesized:

[0318] 7,8-dimethoxy-1-phenyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, VIaa.

[0319] 1-(2-benzo[b]thienyl)-7,8-diethoxy-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, VIab.

[0320] 1-(2-benzo[b]thienyl)-7,8-diethoxy-5-n-propyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, VIac.

[0321] 1-(benzo[b]thienyl)-7,8-diethoxy-5-ethyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, VIad.

[0322] 1-(2-benzo[b]thienyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-5,5-dimethyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, VIae.

[0323] 7,8-dimethoxy-1-phenyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, VIaa.

[0324] Heat 500 mg (1.59 mmol) of 2-benzoyl-4,5-dimethoxyphenyl methyl acetate Vac, 2 ml of hydrazine hydrate and 12 ml of EtOH in a sealed tube at 150° C. for 3 hours. Cool to room temperature. Add 10 ml of AcOH. Heat under reflux for 25 minutes. Evaporate to dryness. Add 60 ml of iced H₂O. Allow to crystallize at 0° C. for 5 minutes. Filter and wash twice with 5 ml of H₂O, twice with 3 ml of EtOH and twice with 5 ml of pentane.

[0325] Recrystallize in EtOH/Et₂O. Yield: 82%. ¹H-NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃): d 3.51 (s, 2H, CH₂), 3.72 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.97 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 6.67 (s, 1H Ar), 6.86 (s, 1H Ar), 7.43-7.48 (m, 3H Ar), 7.62-7.65 (m, 2H Ar), 8.66 (broad s, 1H exchangeable, NH).

[0326] 1-(2-benzo[b]thienyl)-7,8-diethoxy-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, VIab.

[0327] By replacing 2-benzoyl-4,5-dimethoxyphenyl methyl acetate Vac in example VIaa by 2-(2-benzo[b]thienylcarbonyl)-4,5-diethoxyphenyl ethyl acetate Vaf and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 47%. ¹H-NMR (200 MHz, CDCl₃): d 1.46 (t, J=7.1, 3H, CH₃), 1.56 (t, J=7.1, 3H, CH₃), 3.53 (s, 2H, CH₂CO), 4.07 (q, J=6.92, 2H, CH₂), 4.23 (q, J=6.92, 2H, CH₂), 6.89 (s, 11H Ar), 7.17 (s, 1H Ar), 7.39-7.48 (m, 3H Ar), 7.75-7.92 (m, 2H Ar), 8.40 (s, 1 exchangeable, NH).

[0328] 1-(2-benzo[b]thienyl)-7,8-diethoxy-5-n-propyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, VIac.

[0329] By replacing 2-benzoyl-4,5-dimethoxyphenyl methyl acetate Vac in example VIaa by 2-[2-(2-benzo[b]thienylcarbonyl)-4,5-diethoxyphenyl]ethyl valerate Vag and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. 0.84-1.58 (m, 11H, 3×CH₃ and CH₂), 1.84-2.40 (m, 2H, CHCH₂), 3.09-3.16 (m, 1H, CH), 4.03-4.25 (m, 4H, 2×CH₂), 6.77-6.84 (m, 1H Ar), 7.14 (s, 1H Ar), 7.34-7.46 (m, 3H Ar), 7.72-7.90 (m, 2H Ar), 8.46-8.54 (m, 1H exchangeable, NH).

[0330] 1-(benzo[b]thienyl)-7,8-diethoxy-5-ethyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, VIad.

[0331] By replacing 2-benzoyl-4,5-dimethoxyphenyl methyl acetate Vac in example VIaa by 2-[2-(2-benzo[b]thienyl)carbonyl]-4,5-diethoxyphenyl] ethyl butyrate Vah and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 23%. ¹H-NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃):δ 1.11 (t, J=6.21, 3H, CH₃), 1.40-1.46 (m, 3H, CH₃), 1.53 (t, J=7.92, 3H, CH₃), 1.96-2.43 (m, 2H, CH₂), 3.02-3.07 (t, J=6.01, 1H, 5-H), 4.04-4.24 (m, 4H, 2×CH₂), 6.83 (s, 1H Ar), 7.15 (s, 1H Ar), 7.35-7.90 (m, 5H Ar), 8.39 (s, 1H exchangeable, NH).

[0332] 1-(2-benzo[b]thienyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-5,5-dimethyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, VIae.

[0333] By replacing 2-benzoyl-4,5-dimethoxyphenyl methyl acetate Vac in example V/aa by 2-[2-(2-benzo[b]thienylcarbonyl)-4,5-dimethoxyphenyl]-2,2-dimethyl methyl acetate Vai and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 7%. ¹H-NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃): δ 1.36 (s, 3H, 5-CH₃), 1.79 (s, 3H, 5-CH₃), 3.83 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.00 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 7.03 (s, 1H Ar), 7.17 (s, 1H Ar), 7.35-7.44 (m, 3H Ar), 7.73-7.89 (m, 2H Ar), 8.39 (s, 1H exchangeable, NH).

[0334] 1.3. Synthesis of Compounds Represented by Formula III

[0335] The following compounds were synthesized:

[0336] 7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-1-(1-naphthyl)-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIIaa.

[0337] 1-(2-benzo[b]thienyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIIab.

[0338] 3-benzyl-7,8-dimethoxy-1-phenyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIIac.

[0339] 3-dodecyl-7,8-dimethoxy-1-phenyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIIad.

[0340] 7,8-dimethoxy-3-(12-methoxy-12-oxododecyl)-1-phenyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIIae.

[0341] 7,8-dimethoxy-1-phenyl-3-n-propyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIIaf.

[0342] 3-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-1-phenyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIIag.

[0343] 1-(4-iodophenyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIIah.

[0344] 7,8-dimethoxy-1-[4-(2-methoxyphenyl)phenyl]-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIIai.

[0345] 7,8-dimethoxy-1-[4-(3-methoxyphenyl)phenyl]-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIIaj.

[0346] 1-[4-(3-acetylphenyl)phenyl]-7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIIak.

[0347] 1-[4-(4-acetylphenyl)phenyl]-7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIIal.

[0348] 1-[4-(3-acetamidophenyl)phenyl]-7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIIam.

[0349] 1-(4-bromophenyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIIan.

[0350] 7,8-dimethoxy-1-[4-(4-methoxyphenyl)phenyl]-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIIao.

[0351] 1-[4-[3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]phenyl]-7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIIap.

[0352] 7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-1-[4-(2-methylphenyl)phenyl]-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIIaq.

[0353] 7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-1-[4-(3-methylphenyl)phenyl]-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIIar.

[0354] 7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-1-[4-(4-methylphenyl)phenyl]-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIIas.

[0355] 1-[4-(4-chlorophenyl)phenyl]-7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIIat.

[0356] 7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-1-[4-(2-thienyl)phenyl]-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIIau.

[0357] 1-[4-(2-furyl)phenyl]-7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIIav.

[0358] 1-{4-[3,5-bis-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]phenyl}-7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIIaw.

[0359] 1-[4-(heptyn-1-yl)phenyl]-7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIIax.

[0360] 7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-1-[4-(3-nitrophenyl)phenyl]-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIIay.

[0361] 1-(2-benzo[b]thienyl)-7,8-diethoxy-3-ethyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIIaz.

[0362] 1-(2-benzo[b]thienyl)-7,8-diethoxy-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIIba.

[0363] 1-(2-benzo[b]thienyl)-7,8-diethoxy-5-ethyl-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIIbb.

[0364] 1-(2-benzo[b]thienyl)-7,8-diethoxy-3-methyl-5-n-propyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIIbc.

[0365] 3,5-dibenzyl-7,8-dimethoxy-1-phenyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIIbd.

[0366] 7,8-dimethoxy-1-phenyl-3-(3-hydroxypropyl)-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIbe.

[0367] 7,8-dime th oxy-3-methyl-1′-(1′-naphthyl)-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIIaa.

[0368] Heat 150 mg (0.41 mmol) of 4,5-dimethoxy-2-(1-naphthoyl)phenyl methyl acetate Vaa, 200 μl of methylhydrazine and 12 ml of EtOH in a sealed tube at 150° C. for 3 hours.

[0369] Allow to cool to room temperature. Add 1 ml of AcOH. Heat under reflux for 25 minutes. Evaporate to dryness. Add 5 ml of iced H₂O. Allow to crystallize at 0° C. for 5 minutes. Filter and wash twice with 1 ml of H₂O, twice with 0.5 ml of EtOH and twice with 3 ml of pentane. Recrystallize in EtOH/Et₂O. Yield: 31%. ¹H-NMR (200 MHz, CDCl₃): d 3.53 (s, 3H, CH₃), 3.57 (s, 3H, CH₃), 3.72 (s, 2H, CH₂), 4.00 (s, 3H, CH₃), 6.41 (s, 1H Ar), 6.95 (s, 1H Ar), 7.40-7.65 (m, 4H Ar), 7.78-7.82 (m, 1H Ar), 7.92-8.03 (m, 2H Ar).

[0370] 1-(2-benzo[b]thienyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIIab.

[0371] By replacing 4,5-dimethoxy-2-(1-naphthoyl)phenyl methyl acetate Vaa in example IIIaa by 2-(2-benzo[b]thienylcarbonyl)-4,5-dimethoxyphenyl methyl acetate Vab and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 69%. M: 112-115° C. ¹H-NMR (200 MHz, CDCl₃): d 3.44 (s, 3H, CH₃), 3.52 (s, 2H, CH₂), 3.86 (s, 3H, CH₃), 3.99 (s, 3H, CH₃), 6.89 (s, 1H Ar), 7.13 (s, 1H Ar), 7.37-7.44 (m, 3H Ar), 7.74-7.89 (m, 2H Ar).

[0372] 3-benzyl-7,8-dimethoxy-1-phenyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIIac.

[0373] To a solution of 7,8-dimethoxy-1-phenyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one VIaa (100 mg, 0.34 mmol) in DMF (5 ml), under an inert atmosphere, add NaH in oil (12 mg, 0.30 mmol). Then add dropwise benzyl bromide (40 μl, 0.34 mmol). After 2 hours at room temperature, evaporate the DMF. Take up the residue in CH₂Cl₂, wash twice with water. Dry the organic phases on Na₂SO₄. Purify by silica gel column chromatography (AcOEt/hexane, 4:1). Yield: 71%. M: 114-116° C. ¹H-NMR (200 MHz, CDCl₃): d 3.53-3.64 (m, 2H, CH₂), 3.73 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.00 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.93-5.32 (d, 2H, NCH₂Ph), 6.63 (s, 1H, Ar), 6.92 (s, 1H, Ar), 7.20-7.59 (m, 10H, Ar).

[0374] 3-n-dodecyl-7,8-dimethoxy-1-phenyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIIad.

[0375] By replacing benzyl bromide in example IIIac by n-dodecyl bromide and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained in the form of a colorless oil.

[0376] Yield: 46%. ¹H-NMR (200 MHz, CDCl₃): d 0.88 (t, J=4.5, 3H, CH₃), 1.25 (m, 18H, 9×CH₂), 1.65 (m, 2H, NCH₂CH₂), 3.43 (m, 2H, NCH₂), 3.73 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.80 (broad s, 2H, CH₂), 3.97 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 6.67 (s, 1H, Ar), 6.88 (s, 1H, Ar), 7.44 (m, 3H, Ar), 7.66 (m, 2H, Ar).

[0377] 7,8-dimethoxy-3-(12-methoxy-12-oxododecyl)-1-phenyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIIae.

[0378] By replacing benzyl bromide in example IIIac by methyl 12-bromododecanoate and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained as a colorless oil.

[0379] Yield: 99%. ¹H-NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃): d 1.20 (m, 14H, 7×CH₂), 1.56-1.64 (m, 4H, 2×CH₂), 2.27 (t, J=7.1, CH₂COO), 3.47 (broad m, 2H, NCH₂), 3.64 (s, 3H, COOCH₃), 3.70 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.75 (broad s, 2H, CH₂), 3.94 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 6.65 (s, 1H, Ar), 6.86 (s, 1H, Ar), 7.42 (m, 3H, Ar), 7.64 (m, 2H, Ar).

[0380] 7,8-dimethoxy-1-phenyl-3-n-propyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIIaf.

[0381] Add dropwise under an inert atmosphere 400 μl of iodopropane to a solution of 200 mg (0.675 mmol) of 7,8-dimethoxy-1-phenyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one VIaa and 121 mg (0.878 mmol) of K₂CO₃ in solution in 5 ml of DMF. After 72 hours at room temperature, add 30 ml of H₂O and extract three times with 30 ml of Et₂O. Dry the organic fractions on Na₂SO₄. Purify by chromatography (AcOEt 1/hexane 1). Yield: 72%. M: 48-52° C. ¹H-NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃): d 0.83 (t, J=7.34, 3H, CH₃), 1.65-1.72 (m, 2H, CH₂CH₃), 2.85-3.62 (m, 4H, CH₂CH₂CH₃+5-CH₂), 3.74 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.98 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 6.67 (s, 1H Ar), 6.89 (s, 1H Ar), 7.43-7.47 (m, 3H Ar), 7.65-7.68 (m, 2H Ar).

[0382] 3-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-1-phenyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIIag.

[0383] By replacing iodopropane in example IIIaf by iodoethane and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 84%. M: 123-126° C. ¹H-NMR (200 MHz, CDCl₃): d 1.29 (t, J=7.08, 3H, CH₃), 3.25-3.70 (m, 5H, 5-CH₂+OCH₃), 2.90-4.00 (m, 5H, CH₂CH₃+OCH₃), 6.71 (s, 1H Ar), 6.91 (s, 1H Ar), 7.46-7.51 (m, 3H Ar), 7.68-7.71 (m, 2H Ar).

[0384] 1-(4-iodophenyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIIah.

[0385] By replacing 4,5-dimethoxy-2-(1-naphthoyl)phenyl methyl acetate Vaa in example IIIaa by 2-(4-iodobenzoyl)-4,5-dimethoxyphenyl methyl acetate Vad and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 32%. M: 158-160° C. ¹H-NMR (200 MHz, CDCl₃): d 3.40-3.48 (s, 5H, CH₃+CH₂), 3.75 (s, 3H, CH₃), 3.97 (s, 3H, CH₃), 6.64 (s, 1H Ar), 6.87 (s, 1H Ar), 7.59 (AB system, ? d=0.38, J_(AB)=8.80, 4H Ar).

[0386] 7,8-dimethoxy-1-[4-(2-methoxyphenyl)phenyl]-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIIai.

[0387] Heat at 90° C. for 12 hours under an inert atmosphere a mixture of 100 mg (0.229 mmol) of 1-(4-iodophenyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one IIIah, 38 mg (0.25 mmol) of 2-methoxybenzene boronic acid, 215 μl of 2M Na₂CO₃, 25 mg (0.020 mmol) of tetrakis (triphenylphosphine) Pd (O) and 250 μl of EtOH in 5 ml of degassed toluene. Allow to cool to room temperature. Add 80 ml of H₂O and extract three times with 50 ml of Et₂O. Dry the organic fractions on Na₂SO₄. Purify by chromatography (AcOEt). Recrystallize in Et₂O/pentane. The reaction yields 70 mg of the abovenamed product in the form of colorless crystals. Yield: 73%. M: 185-186° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 3.40-3.51 (m, 5H, CH₂+CH₃), 3.78 (s, 3H, CH₃), 3.85 (s, 3H, CH₃), 3.98 (s, 3H, CH₃), 6.80 (s, 1H Ar), 6.89 (s, 1H Ar), 7.04-7.73 (m, 8H Ar).

[0388] 7,8-dimethoxy-1-[4-(3-methoxyphenyl)phenyl]-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIIaj.

[0389] By replacing 2-methoxybenzene boronic acid in example IIIai by 3-methoxybenzene boronic acid and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained.

[0390] Yield: 68%. M: 92-99° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 3.41-3.50 (m, 5H, CH₂+CH₃), 3.76 (s, 3H, CH₃), 3.89 (s, 3H, CH₃), 4.12 (s, 3H, CH₃), 6.75 (s, 1H Ar), 6.89 (s, 1H Ar), 6.94-7.75 (m, 8H Ar).

[0391] 1-[4-(3-acetylphenyl)phenyl]-7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIIak.

[0392] By replacing 2-methoxybenzene boronic acid in example IIIai by 3-acetylbenzene boronic acid and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained.

[0393] Yield: 76%. M: 147-149° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 2.69 (s, 3H, CH₃CO), 3.43-3.53 (m, 5H, CH₂+CH₃), 3.77 (s, 3H, CH₃), 3.98 (s, 3H, CH₃), 6.73 (s, 1H Ar), 6.90 (s, 1H Ar), 7.59-8.27 (m, 8H Ar).

[0394] 1-[4-(4-acetylphenyl)phenyl]-7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIIal.

[0395] By replacing 2-methoxybenzene boronic acid in example IIIai by 4-acetylbenzene boronic acid and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained.

[0396] Yield: 68%. M: 199-201° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 2.67 (s, 3H, CH₃CO), 3.43-3.54 (m, 5H, CH₂+CH₃), 3.76 (s, 3H, CH₃), 3.98 (s, 3H, CH₃), 6.73 (s, 1H Ar), 6.90 (s, 1H Ar), 7.70-7.80 (m, 6H Ar), 8.06-8.09 (m, 2H Ar).

[0397] 1-[4-(3-acetamidophenyl)phenyl]-7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIIam.

[0398] By replacing 2-methoxybenzene boronic acid in example IIIai by 4-acetamidobenzene boronic acid and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained.

[0399] Yield: 61%. MF: 244-246° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 2.23 (s, 3H, CH₃CO), 3.43-3.53 (m, 5H, CH₂+CH₃), 3.76 (s, 3H, CH₃), 3.98 (s, 3H, CH₃), 6.73 (s, 1H Ar), 6.89 (s, 1H Ar), 7.40-7.74 (m, 8H Ar), 7.90 (broad s, 1H exchangeable, NH).

[0400] 1-(4-bromophenyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIIan.

[0401] By replacing 2-(4-iodobenzoyl)-4,5-dimethoxyphenyl methyl acetate Vad in example IIIah by 2-(4-bromobenzoyl)-4,5-dimethoxyphenyl methyl acetate Vae and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 37%. M: 145-147° C. ¹H-NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃): d 3.40-3.49 (s, 5H, CH₃+CH₂), 3.75 (s, 3H, CH₃), 3.97 (s, 3H, CH₃), 6.64 (s, 1H Ar), 6.87 (s, 1H Ar), 7.56 (AB system, ? d=0.16, J_(AB)=8.30, 4H Ar).

[0402] 7,8-dimethoxy-1-[4-(4-methoxyphenyl)phenyl]-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIao.

[0403] By replacing 2-methoxybenzene boronic acid in example IIIai by 4-methoxybenzene boronic acid and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 81%. M: 222-224° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 3.41-3.50 (m, 5H, CH₂+CH₃), 3.76 (s, 3H, CH₃), 3.88 (s, 3H, CH₃), 3.98 (s, 3H, CH₃), 6.75 (s, 1H Ar), 6.89 (s, 1H Ar), 7.37 (AB system, ? d=0.67, J_(AB)=8.7, 4H Ar), 7.59-7.65 (m, 4H Ar).

[0404] 1-[4-[3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]phenyl]-7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIIap.

[0405] By replacing 2-methoxybenzene boronic acid in example IIIai by 3-trifluoromethylbenzene boronic acid and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 72%. M: 100-103° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 3.43-3.53 (m, 5H, CH₂+CH₃), 3.76 (s, 3H, CH₃), 3.98 (s, 3H, CH₃), 6.73 (s, 1H Ar), 6.90 (s, 1H Ar), 7.52-7.89 (m, 8H Ar).

[0406] 7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-1-[4-(2-methylphenyl)phenyl]-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIIaq.

[0407] By replacing 2-methoxybenzene boronic acid in example IIIai by 2-methylbenzene boronic acid and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained.

[0408] Yield: 84%. M: 184-186° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 2.31 (s, 3H, PhCH₃), 3.40-3.51 (m, 5H, CH₂+CH₃), 3.78 (s, 3H, CH₃), 3.98 (s, 3H, CH₃), 6.78 (s, 1H Ar), 6.89 (s, 1H Ar), 7.28-7.73 (m, 8H Ar).

[0409] 7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-1-[4-(3-methylphenyl)phenyl]-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIIar.

[0410] By replacing 2-methoxybenzene boronic acid in example IIIai by 3-methylbenzene boronic acid and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained.

[0411] Yield: 81%. M: 154-156° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 2.45 (s, 3H, PhCH₃), 3.40-3.51 (m, 5H, CH₂+CH₃), 3.76 (s, 3H, CH₃), 3.98 (s, 3H, CH₃), 6.75 (s, 1H Ar), 6.89 (s,1H Ar), 7.20-7.75 (m, 8H Ar).

[0412] 7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-1-[4-(4-methylphenyl)phenyl]-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIIas.

[0413] By replacing 2-methoxybenzene boronic acid in example IIIai by 4-methylbenzene boronic acid and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained.

[0414] Yield: 84%. M: 191-192° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 2.42 (s, 3H, PhCH₃), 3.40-3.51 (m, 5H, CH₂+CH₃), 3.76 (s, 3H, CH₃), 3.98 (s, 3H, CH₃), 6.75 (s, 1H Ar), 6.89 (s, 1H Ar), 7.28-7.74 (m, 8H Ar).

[0415] 1-[4-(4-chlorophenyl)phenyl]-7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIIat.

[0416] By replacing 2-methoxybenzene boronic acid in example IIIai by 4-chlorobenzene boronic acid and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained.

[0417] Yield: 44%. M: 191-193° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): δ 3.41-3.52 (m, 5H, CH₂+CH₃), 3.75 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.98 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 6.73 (s, 1H Ar), 6.89 (s, 1H Ar), 7.24-7.72 (m, 8H Ar).

[0418] 7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-1-[4-(2-thienyl)phenyl]-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIIau.

[0419] By replacing 2-methoxybenzene boronic acid in example IIIai by 2-thiophene boronic acid and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield 41%. M: 147-149° C.

[0420] 1-[4-(2-furyl)phenyl]-7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIIav.

[0421] By replacing 2-methoxybenzene boronic acid in example IIIai by 2-furanboronic acid and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 89%.

[0422] M: 178-179° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 3.40-3.51 (m, 5H, CH₂+CH₃), 3.74 (s, 3H, CH₃), 3.97 (s, 3H, CH₃), 6.51-6.53 (m, 1H Ar), 6.70 (s, 1H Ar), 6.76-6.78 (m, 1H Ar), 6.88 (s, 1H Ar), 7.52-7.75 (m, 5H Ar).

[0423] 1-{4-[3,5-bis-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]phenyl}-7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIIaw.

[0424] By replacing 2-methoxybenzene boronic acid in example IIIai by 3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)benzene boronic acid and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 32%. M: 192-194° C. ¹H-NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃): δ 3.40-3.51 (m, 5H, CH₂+CH₃), 3.76 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.98 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 6.70 (s, 1H Ar), 6.90 (s, 1H Ar), 7.67-8.06 (m, 7H Ar).

[0425] 1-[4-(heptyn-1-yl)phenyl]-7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIIax.

[0426] Stir for 3 hours at room temperature under an inert atmosphere a mixture of 1-(4-iodophenyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one IIIah, 12 mg of CuI, 7 mg of PdCl₂, 23 mg of PPh₃, 2 ml of TEA, 4 ml of heptyne, in 12 ml of CH₃CN. Evaporate to dryness and purify by silica chromatography (AcOEt 1/hexane 1).

[0427] Recrystallize in EtOH/pentane. Yield: 16%. M: 110-112° C. ¹H-NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃): δ 0.94 (t, J=7.2, 3H, CH₃), 1.36-1.64 (m, 8H, 4×CH₂), 2.44 (t, J=7.2, 2H, C≡CCH₂), 3.43 (s, 3H, NCH₃), 3.72 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.96 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 6.64 (s, 1H Ar), 6.86 (s, 1H Ar), 7.43-7.60 (m, 4H Ar).

[0428] 7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-1-[4-(3-nitrophenyl)phenyl]-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIIay.

[0429] By replacing 2-methoxybenzene boronic acid in example IIIai by 3-nitrophenyl boronic acid and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 89%. M: 211-213° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 3.50-3.56 (m, 5H, CH₂+CH₃), 3.80 (s, 3H, CH₃), 4.02 (s, 3H, CH₃), 6.75 (s, 1H Ar), 6.93 (s, 1H Ar), 7.65-8.56 (m, 8H Ar).

[0430] 1-(2-benzo[b]thienyl)-7,8-diethoxy-3-ethyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIIaz.

[0431] By replacing 7,8-dimethoxy-1-phenyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one VIaa in example IIIag by 1-(2-benzo[b]thienyl)-7,8-diethoxy-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one VIab and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 72%. M: 100-103° C. ¹H-NMR (200 MHz, CDCl₃): d 1.26 (t, J=7.1, 3H, CH₃), 1.44 (t, J=7.0, 3H, CH₃), 1.52 (t, J=7.1, 3H, CH₃), 3.29-3.56 (m, 2H, 5-CH₂), 3.85-4.25 (m, 6H, 3×CH₂CH₃), 6.87 (s, 1H Ar), 7.15 (s, 1H Ar), 7.32-7.44 (m, 3H Ar), 7.71-7.89 (m, 2H Ar).

[0432] 1-(2-benzo[b]thienyl)-7,8-diethoxy-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIIba.

[0433] By replacing ethyl iodide in example IIIaz by methyl iodide and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 65%. M: 157-160° C. ¹H-NMR (200 MHz, CDCl₃): d 1.43 (t, J=7.0, 3H, CH₃), 1.52 (t, J=7.2, 3H, CH₃), 3.38-3.58 (m, 5H, CH₃+5-CH₂), 4.05 (q, J=7.2, 2H, CH₂CH₃), 4.19 (q, J=7.0, 2H, CH₂CH₃), 6.87 (s, 1H Ar), 7.13 (s, 1H Ar), 7.35-7.44 (m, 3H Ar), 7.71-7.89 (m, 2H Ar).

[0434] 1-(2-benzo[b]thienyl)-7,8-diethoxy-5-ethyl-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIIbb.

[0435] By replacing 1-(2-benzo[b]thienyl)-7,8-diethoxy-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one VIab in example IIIba by 1-(benzo[b]thienyl)-7,8-diethoxy-5-ethyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one VIad and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 70%. M: 79-81° C. ¹H-NMR (200 MHz, CDCl₃): d 1.07 (t, J=7.2, 3H, CH₃), 1.42 (t, J=7.0, 3H, CH₃), 1.52 (t, J=7.0, 3H, CH₃), 1.92-2.47 (m, 2H, 5-CH₂CH₃), 2.96-3.04 (m, 1H, 5-H), 3.45 (s, 3H, 3-CH₃), 3.99-4.25 (m, 4H, 3×OCH₂CH₃), 6.83 (s, 1H Ar), 7.13 (s, 1H Ar), 7.35-7.44 (m, 3H Ar), 7.72-7.90 (m, 2H Ar).

[0436] 1-(2-benzo[b]thienyl)-7,8-diethoxy-3-methyl-5-n-propyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIIbc.

[0437] By replacing 1-(2-benzo[b]thienyl)-7,8-diethoxy-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one VIab in example IIIba by 1-(2-benzo[b]thienyl)-7,8-diethoxy-5-n-propyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one VIac and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 34%. M: 61-63° C. ¹H-NMR (200 MHz, CDCl₃): d 1.01 (t, J=7.34, 3H, (CH₂)₂CH₃), 1.39-4.55 (m, 8H, CH₂CH₂CH₃+2×OCH₂CH₃), 1.75-2.42 (m, 2H, CH₂CH₂CH₃), 3.04-3.11 (m, 1H, 5-H), 3.45 (s, 3H, 3-CH₃), 3.99-4.23 (m, 4H, 2×OCH₂CH₃), 6.83 (s, 1H Ar), 7.12 (s, 1H Ar), 7.35-7.44 (m, 3H Ar), 7.72-7.89 (m, 2H Ar).

[0438] 3,5-dibenzyl-7,8-dimethoxy-1-phenyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIIbd.

[0439] To a solution of 7,8-dimethoxy-1-phenyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one VIaa (200 mg, 0.67 mmol) in DMF (10 ml), under an inert atmosphee, add NaH in oil (50 mg, 1.25 mmol). Then add dropwise benzyl bromide (150 μl, 1.26 mmol). After 2 hours at room temperature, evaporate the DMF. Take up the residue in CH₂Cl₂, wash twice with water. Dry the organic phases on Na₂SO₄. Purify by silica gel column chromatography (AcOEt/hexane, 4:1). Yield: 79%. ¹H-NMR (200 MHz, CDCl₃): d 3.35-3.56 (m, 2H, CH₂Ph), 3.70 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.80 (m, 1H, CH), 3.97 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.87 (d, J=10.2, 1H, NCHPh), 5.30 (d, J=10.2, 1H, NCHPh), 6.61 (s, 1H, Ar), 6.93 (s, 1H, Ar), 7.06-7.42 (m, 13H, Ar), 7.59 (d, J=4.8, 2H, Ar). SM: 477 (M+H), 500 (M+H+Na).

[0440] 7,8-dimethoxy-1-phenyl-3-(3-hydroxypropyl)-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, IIIbe.

[0441] By replacing benzyl bromide in example IIIac by propan-1-ol bromide and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 44%. ¹H-NMR (200 MHz, CDCl₃): d 1.88 (broad m, 2H, CH₂), 3.21 (broad s, 1H, OH), 3.44 (broad m, 4H, NCH₂ and CH₂O), 3.72 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.97 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.06 (m, 2H, CH₂), 6.66 (s, 1H, Ar), 6.88 (s, 1H, Ar), 7.44 (m, 3H, Ar), 7.64 (m, 2H, Ar).

EXAMPLE 2 Synthesis of Compounds Represented by Formula III According to the Invention by a Second Route

[0442] 2.1. Synthesis of 6,7-dimethoxyisochroman-3-one, VIII.

[0443] Heat at 120° C. for 1 hour a mixture of 19.6 g (100 mmol) of 3,4-dimethoxyphenyl acetic acid (VII), 7.4 g (246 mmol) of paraformaldehyde and 20 ml of concentrated HCl in 100 ml of AcOH. Evaporate to dryness. Add 100 ml of H₂O, and extract three times with 200 ml of CH₂Cl₂. Wash the organic phases with 50 ml of 0.5 N NaHCO₃ and dry on Na₂SO₄. Evaporate to dryness. Allow to crystallize for 2 hours in 50 ml of Et₂O.

[0444] Filter and wash twice with 10 ml of Et₂O and twice with 20 ml of pentane. Yield: 83%.

[0445] M: 106-108° C. ¹H-NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃): d 3.64 (s, 2H, CH₂), 3.89 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.90 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 5.26 (s, 2H, CH₂),6.71 (s, 1H Ar), 6.75 (s, 1H Ar).

[0446] 2.2. Synthesis of 4,5-dimethoxyhomophthalic acid, IX.

[0447] Add dropwise 800 ml of a 10% solution of KMnO₄ to a solution of 10.4 g (50 mmol) of 6,7-dimethoxy-3-isochromanone VIII in 55 ml of 10% KOH. Stir at room temperature for 10 hours. Add 20 ml of EtOH and heat at 70° C. for 20 minutes. Concentrate the reaction medium to two-thirds. Acidify to pH 2-3 (check with pH paper) using concentrated HCl. Allow to crystallize at 0° C. for 1 hour. Filter and wash twice with 10 ml of H₂O. Yield: 78%. ¹H-NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃): d 3.93 (s, 2H, CH₃), 3.96 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.01 (s, 2H, CH₂), 6.74 (s, 1H Ar), 7.66 (s, 1H Ar).

[0448] 2.3. Synthesis of 6,7-dimethoxyisochroman-1,3-diones, X.

[0449] Heat under reflux 3.6 g (15 mmol) of 4,5-dimethoxyhomophthalic acid IX, in 30 ml of acetyl chloride. Add 40 ml of Et₂O. Filter and wash twice with 3 ml of Et₂O then twice with 10 ml of pentane. Yield: 82%. The product is used as is for the subsequent reactions.

[0450] 2.4. Synthesis of 2-(2-hydrazino-2-oxoethyl)4,5-dimethoxy benzoic acid, XI.

[0451] To a solution of 810 μl of hydrazine hydrate in 15 ml of EtOH, add 3 g (13.5 mmol) of 6,7-dimethoxyisochroman-1,3-diones X. Stir for 15 minutes at room temperature. Filter the precipitate. Wash twice with 5 ml of EtOH and twice with 10 ml of Et₂O. Yield: 96%. ¹H-NMR (300 MHz, DMSO-D₆): d 3.69 (s, 2H, CH₂), 3.73 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.75 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 6.55 (broad s, 2H exchangeable, NH), 6.76 (s, 1H Ar), 7.34 (s, 1H Ar).

[0452] 2.5. Synthesis of 7,8-dimethoxy-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-5H-2,3-benzodiazepine-1,4-dione, XII.

[0453] To 15 ml of AcOH at 100° C., add 1.5 g (5.9 mmol) of 2-(2-hydrazino-2-oxoethyl)-4,5-dimethoxy benzoic acid XI. After 5 minutes at 100° C., cool in an ice bath. Filter and wash twice with 1 ml of AcOH, twice with 2 ml of H₂O, twice with 10 ml of Et₂O.

[0454] Yield: 78%. ¹H-NMR (300 MHz, DMSO-D₆): d 3.76 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.78 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.88 (s, 2H, CH₂), 6.97 (s, 1H Ar), 7.40 (s, 1H Ar), 9.85 (s, 1H exchangeable, 2-NH), 12.4 (s, 1H exchangeable, 3-NH).

[0455] 2.6. Synthesis of 7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-5H-2,3-benzodiazepine-1,4-diones, XIII.

[0456] Stir at room temperature a mixture of 200 mg (0.85 mmol) of 7,8-dimethoxy-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-SH-2,3-benzodiazepine-1,4-dione XII, 130 mg (0.93 mmol) of K₂CO₃ and 58 μl (0.93 mmol) of methyl iodide in 3 ml of anhydrous DMF. After 24 hours add 40 ml of H₂O. Filter the precipitate and wash once with 1 ml of H₂O, twice with 3 ml of MeOH and twice with 5 ml of Et₂O. Yield: 87%. ¹H-NMR (300 MHz, DMSO-D₆): d 3.77 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.78 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.80 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.84 (s, 2H, CH₂), 7.00 (s, 1H Ar), 7.38 (s, 1H Ar), 9.87 (s, 1H exchangeable, NH).

[0457] 2.7. Synthesis of 1-chloro-7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-5H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, XIVaa.

[0458] Heat at 115° C. in a sealed tube for 1 hour a solution of 100 mg (0.40 mmol) of 7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-5H-2,3-benzodiazepine-1,4-diones XIII, 250 μl of dimethylaniline, 600 μl of POCl₃, in 10 ml of anhydrous CHCl₃. Allow to cool to room temperature. At −20° C. add 3 g of silica, 15 ml of CH₂Cl₂ and 3 ml of triethylamine. Evaporate to dryness. Purify by chromatography (AcOEt). Triturate in 1 ml of Et₂O. Filter and wash twice with 2 ml of pentane. Yield: 88%. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 3.68 (s, 3H, 3-CH₃), 3.79 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.80 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.47 (s, 2H, CH₂), 7.03 (s, 1H Ar), 7.44 (s, 11H Ar).

[0459] 2.8. Synthesis of 1-bromo-7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-5H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one, XIVab.

[0460] By replacing POCl₃ in example XIVaa by POBr₃ and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 48%. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 3.84 (s, 3H, 3-CH₃), 3.91 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.96 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.61 (s, 2H, CH₂), 6.80 (s, 1H Ar), 7.58 (s, 11H Ar).

EXAMPLE 3 Synthesis of Compounds Represented by General Formula II According to the Invention by a First Route

[0461] 3.1. Synthesis of intermediates represented by formula XVIII.

[0462] 6,7-dimethoxy-1-methyl-1,2-dihydro-4H-3,1-benzoxazine-2,4-dione, XVI.

[0463] To a solution of 500 mg (3.06 mmol) of 6,7-dimethoxy-1,2-dihydro-4H-3,1-benzoxazine-2,4-dione (XV), in 6 ml of anhydrous DMF, add under an inert atmosphere 134 mg (3.37 mmol) of 60% NaH in oil. After 10 minutes at room temperature, add dropwise 219 μl (3.52 mmol) of MeI. Allow to stand at room temperature for 3 hours.

[0464] Add 40 ml of a water-ice mixture. Filter the precipitate and wash twice with 1 ml of EtOH and 3 ml of Et₂O. One obtains 320 mg of the abovenamed product in the form of a white powder. Yield: 59%. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 3.31 (s, 3H, 1-CH₃), 3.82 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.96 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 6.85 (s, 1H Ar), 7.32 (s, 1H Ar).

[0465] 7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepine-2,5-dione, XVIIaa.

[0466] Heat under reflux for 6 hours a mixture of 320 mg (1.35 mmol) of 6,7-dimethoxy-1-methyl-1,2-dihydro-4H-3,1-benzoxazine-2,4-dione (XVI), 452 mg (3.24 mmol) of methyl glycinate hydrochloride in 4 ml of pyridine. Add 3 ml of AcOH and heat at 130° C. for 12 hours. Evaporate to dryness. Add 10 ml of a water-ice mixture. Allow to crystallize at 0° C. for 30 minutes. Filter and wash twice with 2 ml of H₂O, twice with 1 ml of EtOH and twice with 5 ml of Et₂O. Recrystallize in EtOH. One obtains 240 mg of the abovenamed product in the form of colorless crystals. Yield: 71%. M: 260-263° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 3.42 (s, 3H, NCH₃), 3.75-3.92 (m, 2H, CH₂), 3.98 (s, 6H, 2×OCH₃), 6.39 (sl, 1H exchangeable, NH), 6.69 (s, 1H Ar), 7.37 (s, 1H Ar).

[0467] 7,8-dimethoxy-3,4-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepine-2,5-dione, XVIIab.

[0468] By replacing 6,7-dimethoxy-1-methyl-11,2-dihydro-4H-3,1-benzoxazine-2,4-dione (XVI) in example XVIIaa by 6,7-dimethoxy-1,2-dihydro-4H-3,1-benzoxazine-2,4-dione (XV) and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 54%. ¹H-NMR (DMSO, 300 MHz): d 3.55 (d, J=5.3, 2H, CH₂), 3.77 (s, 6H, 2×OCH₃), 6.16 (s, 1H Ar), 6.67 (s, 1H Ar), 8.34 (t, J=5.3, 1H, NH), 10.07 (s, 1H, NH).

[0469] 7,8-dimethoxy-1-n-propyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepine-2,5-dione, XVIIac.

[0470] To a solution of 723 mg (3.06 mmol) of 7,8-dimethoxy-3,4-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepine-2,5-dione (XVIIab), in 6 ml of anhydrous DMF, add under an inert atmosphere 134 mg (3.37 mmol) of 60% NaH in oil. After 10 minutes at room temperature, add dropwise 328 μl (3.37 mmol) of n-PrI. Allow to stand at room temperature for 3 hours. Add 40 ml of a water-ice mixture. Filter the precipitate and wash twice with 1 ml of EtOH and 3 ml of Et₂O. One obtains 320 mg of the abovenamed product in the form of a white powder. Yield: 65%. ¹H-NMR (DMSO, 200 MHz): d 0.66-0.73 (m, 3H, CH₂CH₃), 1.27-1.39 (m, 2H, CH₂CH₃), 3.30-4.22 (m, 10H, CH₂+CH₂+2×OCH₃), 6.97 (s, 1H Ar), 7.13 (s, 1H Ar), 8.56 (s, 1H, NH).

[0471] 1-benzyl-7,8-dimethoxy-3,4-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepine-2,5-dione, XVIIad.

[0472] By replacing n-Pr-I in example XVIIac by Bn-Br and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 45%. ¹H-NMR (DMSO, 200 MHz): d 3.53-3.77 (m, 8H, CH₂+2×OCH₃), 4.90-5.36 (m, 2H, CH₂), 6.98-7.29 (m, 7H Ar), 8.61 (t, J=5.6, 1H, NH).

[0473] 7,8-dimethoxy-1,3-dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepine-2,5-dione, XVIIae.

[0474] By replacing methyl glycinate hydrochloride in example XVIIaa by methyl alaninate hydrochloride and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained.

[0475] Yield: 45%. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 1.47 (d, J=6.6, 3H, 3-CH₃), 3.40 (s, 3H, 1-CH₃), 3.92-3.97 (m, 7H, 3-CH+2×OCH₃), 6.13 (d, J=4.9, 1H exchangeable, NH), 6.66 (s, 1H Ar), 7.33 (s, 1H Ar).

[0476] 5-chloro-7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, XVIIIaa.

[0477] Heat at 125° C. in a sealed tube for 3Y4 hour a solution of 100 mg (0.40 mmol) of 7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepine-2,5-dione (XVIIaa), 280 μl of dimethylaniline, 800 μl of POCl₃, in 10 ml of anhydrous CHCl₃. Allow to cool to room temperature. Add 3 g of silica and 5 ml of CH₂Cl₂. Add at 0° C., 1 ml of triethylamine.

[0478] Evaporate to dryness. Purify by chromatography (AcOEt l/hexane 1, then AcOEt).

[0479] Triturate in 1 ml of Et₂O. Filter and wash twice with 2 ml of pentane. One obtains 93 mg of the abovenamed product as a white powder. Yield: 87%. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 3.42 (s, 3H, NCH₃), 3.77 (broad s, 1H of CH₂), 3.99 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.00 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.65 (broad s, 1H of CH₂), 6.71 (s, 1H Ar), 7.22 (s, 1H Ar).

[0480] 5-chloro-7,8-dimethoxy-1,3-dimethyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, XVIIIab.

[0481] By replacing 7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepine-2,5-dione (XVIIaa) in example XVIIIaa by 7,8-dimethoxy-1,3-dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepine-2,5-dione (XVIIae) and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 78%. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 1.67 (d, J=6.6, 3H, 3-CH₃), 3.44 (s, 3H, 1-CH₃), 3.68 (q, J=6.6, 1H, 3-CH), 3.98 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.99 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 6.70 (s, 1H Ar), 7.21 (s, 1H Ar).

[0482] 1-benzyl-5-chloro-7,8-dimethoxy-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepine-2-one, XVIIIac.

[0483] By replacing 7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepine-2,5-dione (XVIIaa) in example XVIIIaa by 1-benzyl-7,8-dimethoxy-3,4-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepine-2,5-dione (XVIIad) and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 53%. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 3.70-3.96 (m, 7H, CH+2×OCH₃), 4.65-4.78 (m, 1H CH), 5.09-5.12 (m, 2H, CH₂), 6.70 (s, 1H Ar), 7.15-7.39 (m, 6H Ar).

[0484] 5-chloro-7,8-dimethoxy-1-n-propyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, XVIIIad.

[0485] By replacing 7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepine-2,5-dione (XVIIaa) in example XVIIIaa by 7,8-dimethoxy-1-n-propyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepine-2,5-dione (XVIIac) and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 34%. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 0.81-0.89 (m, 3H, CH₂CH₃), 1.46-1.61 (m, 2H, CH₂CH₃),3.50-3.74 (m, 2H, 2×CH), 3.98 (s, 6H, 2×OCH₃), 4.22-4.66 (m, 2H, 2×CH), 6.77 (s, 1H Ar), 7.30 (s, 1H Ar).

[0486] 3.2. Synthesis of compounds represented by formula (II)

[0487] The following compounds were synthesized:

[0488] 7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIaa.

[0489] 7,8-dimethoxy-5-(3,4-dimethoxyphenyl)-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIIab.

[0490] 5-(2-benzo[b]thienyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIac.

[0491] 7,8-dimethoxy-5-(4-fluorophenyl)-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, had.

[0492] 7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-5-(4-pyridyl)-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIae.

[0493] 7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-5-(3, 5 bis trifluoromethylphenyl)-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, Iaf.

[0494] 5-(2-benzo[b)furyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIag.

[0495] 5-(2-furyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIah.

[0496] 5-(4-acetylphenyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIai.

[0497] 7,8-dimethoxy-5-(4-N,N-dimethylaminophenyl)-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIaj.

[0498] 7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-5-(2-thienyl)-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIak.

[0499] 7,8-dimethoxy-5-(3-methoxyphenyl)-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIal.

[0500] 7,8-dimethoxy-5-(2-methoxyphenyl)-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIam.

[0501] 5-(5-indolyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, Ian.

[0502] 5-(6-benzyloxy-2-naphthyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIao.

[0503] 7,8-dimethoxy-5-(6-methoxy-2-naphthyl)-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIap.

[0504] 5-(2-indolyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIaq.

[0505] 7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-5-(piperidin-1-yl)-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIar.

[0506] 7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-5-[(E)-2-phenylethenyl]-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIas.

[0507] 7,8-dimethoxy-5-(3-hydroxymethylphenyl)-1-methyl-3-propyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIat.

[0508] 7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-5-(2-methylphenyl)-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIau.

[0509] 7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-5-(N-tetrahydro-1,2,3,4-isoquinolyl)-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIav.

[0510] 7,8-dimethoxy-5-(4-methoxyphenyl)-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIaw.

[0511] 5-(3-bromophenyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIax.

[0512] 5-(1,1′-biphenyl-3-yl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIay.

[0513] 7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-5-(2-phenylethyl)-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIaz.

[0514] 7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIaa.

[0515] Heat at 115° C. for 12 hours under an inert atmosphere a mixture of 200 mg (0.74 mmol) of 5-chloro-7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one XVIIIaa, 109 mg (0.89 mmol) of benzene boronic acid, 182 mg (0.86 mmol) of K₃PO₄, 23 mg (0.020 mmol) of tetrakis(triphenylphosphine) Pd (O) in 5 ml of DMF. Allow to cool to room temperature. Add 80 ml of H₂O and extract three times with 50 ml of Et₂O. Dry the organic fractions on Na₂SO₄. Purify by chromatography (AcOEt). Recrystallize in EtOH. One obtains 122 mg of the abovenamed product in the form of colorless crystals.

[0516] Yield: 53%. M: 109-112° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 3.40 (s, 3H, NCH₃), 3.75 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.98 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.30 (AB system, ? d=1.00, J_(AB)=10.2, 2H, CH₂), 6.71 (s, 1H Ar), 6.78 (s, 1H Ar), 7.35-7.47 (m, 3H Ar), 7.64-7.68 (m, 2H Ar).

[0517] 7,8-dimethoxy-5-(3,4-dimethoxyphenyl)-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIab.

[0518] By replacing benzene boronic acid in example IIaa by 3,4-dimethoxybenzene boronic acid and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 82%. M: 130-133° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 3.40 (s, 3H, NCH₃), 3.43 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.94 (s, 6H, 2×OCH₃), 3.98 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.27 (AB system, ? d=0.98, J_(AB)=10.8, 2H, CH₂), 6.78-6.85 (m, 3H Ar), 7.04-7.09 (m, 1H Ar), 7.42-7.43 (m, 1H Ar).

[0519] 5-(2-benzo[b]thienyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIac.

[0520] By replacing benzene boronic acid in example IIaa by benzo[b]thiophene-2-boronic acid and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 83%. M: 136-138° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 3.40 (s, 3H, NCH₃), 3.88 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.00 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.32 (AB system, ? d=0.93, J_(AB)=10.7, 2H, CH₂), 6.80 (s, 1H Ar), 7.15 (s, 1H Ar), 7.31-7.42 (m, 3H Ar), 7.69-7.89 (m, 2H Ar).

[0521] 7,8-dimethoxy-5-(4-fluorophenyl)-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIad.

[0522] By replacing benzene boronic acid in example IIaa by 4-fluorobenzene boronic acid and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 20%. M: 201-202° C. ¹H-NMR (DMSO, 300 MHz): d 3.30 (s, 3H, NCH₃), 3.63 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.89 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.11 (AB system, ? d=0.79, J_(AB)=10.6, 2H, CH₂), 6.67 (s, 1H Ar), 7.08 (s, 1H Ar), 7.08-7.66 (m, 4H Ar).

[0523] 7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-5-(4-pyridyl)-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIae.

[0524] By replacing benzene boronic acid in example IIaa by (pyrid-4-yl))-4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-1,3-dioxolaborolane acid and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 25%. M: 170-172° C. ¹H-NMR (DMSO, 200 MHz): d 3.34 (s, 3H, NCH₃), 3.68 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.93 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.25 (AB system, ? d=0.81, J_(AB)=10.5, 2H, CH₂), 6.73 (s, 1H Ar), 7.58 (d, 2H Ar, J=6.1), 8.72 (d, 2H Ar, J=5.9).

[0525] 7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-5-(3, 5 bis trifluoromethylphenyl)-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIaf.

[0526] By replacing benzene boronic acid in example IIaa by 3, 5 bis trifluoromethylbenzene boronic acid and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 20%. M: 180-182° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 3.44 (s, 3H, NCH₃), 3.76-3.88 (m, 4H, 1HCH₂+OCH₃), 4.02 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.89 (m, 1HCH₂), 6.61 (s, 1H Ar), 6.84 (s, 1H Ar), 7.98 (s, 1H Ar), 8.19 (s, 2H Ar).

[0527] 5-(2-benzo[b]furyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIag.

[0528] By replacing benzene boronic acid in example IIaa by 2-benzo[b]furanboronic acid and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 70%. M: 139-141° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 3.40 (s, 3H, NCH₃), 3.89 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.00 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.41 (AB system, ? d=1.03, J_(AB)=10.3, 2H, CH₂), 6.80 (s, 1H Ar), 7.08 (s, 1H Ar), 7.14-7.65 (m, 5H Ar).

[0529] 5-(2-furyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIah.

[0530] By replacing benzene boronic acid in example IIaa by 2-furanboronic acid and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 43%. M: 172-173° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 3.38 (s, 3H, NCH₃), 3.88 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.98 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4,28 (AB system, ? d=0.98, J_(AB)=10., 2H, CH₂), 6.50-6.54 (m, 1H Ar), 6.74-6.77 (m, 2H Ar), 7.07 (s, 1H Ar), 7.59-7.61 (m, 1H Ar).

[0531] 5-(4-acetylphenyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIai.

[0532] By replacing benzene boronic acid in example IIaa by 4-acetylbenzene boronic acid and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 49%. M: 175-176° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 2.63 (s, 3H, CH₃CO), 3.42 (s, 3H, NCH₃), 3.75 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.00 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.30 (AB system, ? d=1.03, J_(AB)=10.3, 2H, CH₂), 6.64 (s, 1H Ar), 6.80 (s, 1H Ar), 7.86 (AB system, ? d=0.23, J_(AB)=8.08, 4H Ar).

[0533] 7,8-dimethoxy-5-(4-N,N-dimethylaminophenyl)-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIaj.

[0534] By replacing benzene boronic acid in example IIaa by 4-N,N-dimethylaminobenzene boronic acid and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 10%. M: >290° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 3.02 (s, 6H, NCH₃), 3.38 (s, 3H, NCH₃), 3.74-3.78 (m, 4H, 1HCH₂+OCH₃), 3.97 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.67-4.71 (m, 1HCH₂), 6.66-6.81 (m, 4H Ar), 7.54-7.64 (m, 2H Ar). Mass: (M+H)⁺=354.23.

[0535] 7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-5-(2-thienyl)-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIak.

[0536] By replacing benzene boronic acid in example IIaa by 2-thiophene boronic acid and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 66%. M: 180-182° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 3.38 (s, 3H, NCH₃), 3.87 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.99 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.24 (AB system, ? d=0.91, J_(AB)=10.8, 2H, CH₂), 6.77 (s, 1H Ar), 7.05-7.49 (m, 4H Ar).

[0537] 7,8-dimethoxy-5-(3-methoxyphenyl)-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIal.

[0538] By replacing benzene boronic acid in example IIaa by 3-methoxybenzene boronic acid and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 38%. M: 99-102° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 3.40 (s, 3H, NCH₃), 3.77 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.86 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.99 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.1 (AB system, ?d=0.98, J_(AB)=10.7, 2H, CH₂), 6.73 (s, 1H Ar), 6.78 (s, 1H Ar), 6.99-7.35 (m, 4H Ar).

[0539] 7,8-dimethoxy-5-(2-methoxyphenyl)-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIam.

[0540] By replacing benzene boronic acid in example IIaa by 2-methoxybenzene boronic acid and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 54%. M: 153-154° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 3.43 (s, 3H, NCH₃), 3.57 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.68 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.96 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.31 (AB system, ? d=0.99, J_(AB)=10.7, 2H, CH₂), 6.53 (s, 1H Ar), 6.75 (s, 1H Ar), 6.86-7.51 (m, 4H Ar).

[0541] 5-(5-indolyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIan.

[0542] By replacing benzene boronic acid in example IIaa by (1-tert-butyloxycarbonylindole)-5-boronic acid and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 21%. M: 148-151° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 3.40 (s, 3H, NCH₃), 3.92 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.00 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.32 (AB system, ? d=0.85, J_(AB)=10.9, 2H, CH₂), 6.75 (s, 1H Ar), 6.80 (s, 1H Ar), 7.10-7.76 (m, 5H Ar), 9.50 (broad s, 1H exchangeable, NH).

[0543] 5-(6-benzyloxy-2-naphthyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIao.

[0544] By replacing benzene boronic acid in example IIaa by (6-benzyloxynaphthalene-2-boronic acid and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 18%. M: 143-146° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 3.43 (s, 3H, NCH₃), 3.72 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.01 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.34 (AB system, ? d=0.98, J_(AB)=10.6, 2H, CH₂), 5.21 (s, 2H, CH₂), 6.78 (s, 1H Ar), 6.82 (s, 1H Ar), 7.33-8.02 (m, 11H Ar).

[0545] 7,8-dimethoxy-5-(6-methoxy-2-naphthyl)-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIap.

[0546] By replacing benzene boronic acid in example IIaa by (6-methoxynaphthalene-2-boronic acid and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 40%. M: 193-194° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 3.43 (s, 3H, NCH₃), 3.72 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.95 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.01 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.34 (AB system, ? d=0.98, J_(AB)=10.6, 2H, CH₂), 6.79 (s, 1H Ar), 6.82 (s, 1H Ar), 7.16-8.00 (m, 6H Ar).

[0547] 5-(2-indolyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIaq.

[0548] By replacing benzene boronic acid in example IIaa by (1-tert-butyloxycarbonylindole)-2-boronic acid and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 21%. M: 146-148° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 3.39 (s, 3H, NCH₃), 3.89 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.00 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.31 (AB system, ? d=0.87, J_(AB)=10.8, 2H, CH₂), 6.75 (s, 1H Ar), 6.79 (s, 1H Ar), 7.12-7.65 (m, 5H Ar).

[0549] 7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-5-(piperidin-1-yl)-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIar.

[0550] Heat at 110° C. in a sealed tube a mixture of 100 mg (0.37 mmol) of 5-chloro-7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one XVIIIaa and 300 μl (3 mmol) of piperidine in 10 ml of EtOH for 48 hours. Evaporate to dryness and purify by silica chromatography (CH₂Cl₂ 50/AcOEt 40/EtOH 10). Triturate in hexane, filter, dry. One obtains 70 mg of a beige powder. Yield: 60%. M=125-127° C. ¹H-NMR (200 MHz, DMSO): δ 1.63-1.70 (m, 6H, 3×CH₂), 3.20-3.23 (m, 4H, 2×CH₂), 3.37 (s, 3H, NCH₃), 3.91 (AB system, Δδ=0.71, J_(AB)=11.5, 2H, 3-CH₂), 3.94 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.97 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 6.73 (s, 1H Ar), 6.99 (s, 1H Ar).

[0551] 7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-5-[(E)-2-phenylethenyl]-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIas.

[0552] By replacing benzene boronic acid in example IIaa by (E)-2-phenylethenyl boronic acid and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 20%. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 3.38 (s, 3H, NCH₃), 3.76 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.98 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4,26 (AB system, ? d=0.93, J_(AB)=10.6, 2H, CH₂), 6.77 (s,1H Ar), 7.00 (s, 1H, ═CHPh), 7.12 (s, 2H, ═CH+1H Ar) 7.34-751 (m, 5H Ar). Mass: (M+H)⁺=337.21.

[0553] 7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-5-(2-phenylethynyl)-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIat.

[0554] To a solution of 240 mg (0.89 mmol) of 5-chloro-7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one XVIIIaa in 7 ml of CH₃CN, add under an inert atmosphere 17 mg (0.1 mmol) of PdCl₂, 30 mg (0.16 mmol) of CuI. Stir for 5 minutes, then add 68 mg (0.23 mmol) of PPh₃, 185 μl of Net₃ and 150 μl of phenylacetylene. Heat the mixture at 55° C. for 3 hours. Evaporate to dryness and purify by silica chromatography (AcOEt 1/hexane 1, then AcOEt). Recrystallize in EtOH. Yield: 45%. ¹H-NMR (DMSO, 200 MHz): d 3.33 (s, 3H, NCH₃), 3.70-3.91 (m, 7H, 1HCH₂+20CH₃), 4.50-5.60 (m, 1HCH₂), 7.06 (s, 1H Ar), 7.32 (s, 1H Ar), 7.48-7.68 (m, 5H Ar). Mass: (M+H)⁺=335.16.

[0555] 7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-5-(2-methylphenyl)-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIau.

[0556] By replacing benzene boronic acid in example IIaa by 2-methylbenzene boronic acid and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 30%. M: 139-141° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 1.99 (s, 3H, CH₃), 3.44 (s, 3H, NCH₃), 3.66 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.98 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.31 (system AB, ?d=0.99, J_(AB)=10.3, 2H, CH₂), 6.46 (s, 1H Ar), 6.77 (s, 1H Ar), 7.15-7.41 (m, 4H Ar).

[0557] 7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-5-(N-tetrahydro-1,2,3,4-isoquinolyl)-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIav.

[0558] By replacing piperidine in example IIar by tetrahydro-1,2,3,4-isoquinoline and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 35%. M: 154-157° C. ¹H-NMR (DMSO, 300 MHz): d 2.70-3.10 (m, 2H, CH₂), 3.23 (s, 3H, NCH₃), 3.41-3.54 (m, 3H, 1CH₂+1HCH₂), 3.78 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.88 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.98-4.01 (m, 1HCH₂), 4.33-4.44 (m, 2H, CH₂), 6.97 (s, 1H Ar), 7.02 (s, 1H Ar), 7.15 (s, 4H Ar). Mass: (M+H)⁺=366.19.

[0559] 7,8-dimethoxy-5-(4-methoxyphenyl)-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIaw.

[0560] By replacing benzene boronic acid in example IIaa by 4-methoxybenzene boronic acid and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 30%. M: 163-165° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 3.39 (s, 3H, NCH₃), 3.76 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.86 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.98 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.25 (AB system, ? d=0.98, J_(AB)=10.5, 2H, CH₂), 6.74-6.93 (m, 4H Ar), 7.59 (s, 1H Ar), 7.63 (s, 1H Ar).

[0561] 5-(3-bromophenyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIax.

[0562] By replacing benzene boronic acid in example IIaa by 3-bromobenzene boronic acid and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 38%. ¹H-NMR (DMSO, 200 MHz): d 3.33 (s, 3H, NCH₃), 3.66 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.92 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4,23 (AB system, ?d=0.98, J_(AB)=10, 2H, CH₂), 6.72 (s, 1H Ar), 7.12 (s, 1H Ar), 7.37-7.80 (m, 4H Ar).

[0563] 5-(1,1′-biphenyl-3-yl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIay.

[0564] Heat at 115° C. for 12 hours under an inert atmosphere a mixture of 100 mg (0.26 mmol) of 5-(3-bromophenyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one IIax, 38 mg (0.31 mmol) of benzene boronic acid, 63 mg (0.30 mmol) of K₃PO₄, 9 mg (0.020 mmol) of tetrakis(triphenylphosphine) Pd (O) in 1 ml of DMF. Allow to cool to room temperature. Add 80 ml of H₂O and extract three times with 50 ml of Et₂O. Dry the organic fractions on Na₂SO₄. Purify by chromatography (AcOEt 1/hexane 1). Recrystallize in EtOH. One obtains 13 mg of the abovenamed powder as colorless crystals. Yield: 13%. M: 127° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 3.42 (s, 3H, NCH₃), 3.77 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.00 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.34 (AB system, ?d=1.00, J_(AB)=10.5, 2H, CH₂), 6.78 (s, 1H Ar), 6.80 (s, 1H Ar), 7.39-7.90 (m, 9H Ar).

[0565] 7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-5-(2-phenylethyl)-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIaz.

[0566] Stir a mixture of 80 mg (0.24 mmol) of 7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-5-(2-phenylethynyl)-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 132, 15 mg of 10% Pd/C by weight in 5 ml of MeOH and 5 ml of CH₂Cl₂ under 70 psi of H₂ for 48 hours. Filter the suspension on celite, rinse three times with 10 ml of MeOH. Evaporate to dryness and purify by silica chromatography (AcOEt 1/hexane 1, then AcOEt). Yield: 5%. M: 112-115° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 2.95-3.07 (m, 4H, CH₂CH₂), 3.28 (s, 3H, NCH₃), 3.87 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.93 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.10 (AB system, ? d=0.96, J_(AB)=10.2, 2H, CH₂), 6.67 (s, 1H Ar), 6.78 (s, 1H Ar), 7.15-7.25 (m, 5H Ar). Mass: (M+H)⁺=339.15

EXAMPLE 4 Synthesis of Compounds Represented by General Formula II According to the Invention by a Second Route

[0567] 4.1. Synthesis of Intermediates.

[0568] 2-ethoxy-1-methoxy-4-nitrobenzene, XIXaa.

[0569] Under an inert atmosphere at 0° C., add a solution of 10 g (59 mmol) of 2-ethoxy-5-nitrophenol dissolved in 125 ml of DMF, on a solution of 2.6 g (65 mmol) of 60% NaH in oil dissolved in 125 ml of DMF. After 30 minutes at room temperature, add dropwise 5.2 ml (65 mmol) of EtI at 0° C. Allow to stand at room temperature for 12 hours. Add 1.5 l of a water-ice mixture. Filter the precipitate and wash three times with 100 ml of water then once with 100 ml of pentane. One obtains 9.8 g of the abovenamed product in the form of a white powder. Yield: 93%. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 1.52 (t, 3H, —CH₃), 3.98 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.20 (q, 2H, OCH₂), 6.91 (d, 1H Ar), 7.75 (d, 1H Ar), 7.91 (dd,1H Ar).

[0570] 1,2-diethoxy-4-nitrobenzene, XIXab.

[0571] Under an inert atmosphere at 0° C., add a solution of 20 g (0.13 mol) of 4-nitrobenzene-1,2-diol dissolved in 150 ml of DMF, on a solution of 11.35 g (0.28 mol) of 60% NaH dissolved in 150 ml of DMF. After 30 minutes at room temperature, add dropwise 5.2 ml (65 mmol) of EtI at 0° C. Allow to stand at room temperature for 12 hours. Add 2 l of a water-ice mixture. Filter the precipitate and wash three times with 100 ml of water then once with 100 ml of pentane. One obtains 20.4 g of the abovenamed product in the form of a white powder. Yield: 76%. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 1.47-1.53 (m, 6H, 2×—CH₃), 4.14-4.20 (m, 4H, 2×OCH₂), 6.88 (d, 1H Ar), 7.74 (d, 1H Ar), 7.89 (dd, 1H Ar).

[0572] 3-ethoxy-4-methoxyaniline, XXaa.

[0573] Leave under hydrogen pressure (Patm) for 12 hours, 5 g of 2-ethoxy-1-methoxy-4-nitrobenzene (XIXaa), 500 mg of 10% palladium on charcoal (10% by weight of product to reduce), in 200 ml of methanol. Filter on celite, rinse several times with methanol. Evaporate to dryness. Take up in ether and evaporate. One obtains 3.28 g of the abovenamed product as a pinkish white powder. Yield: 79%. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 1.46 (t, 3H, —CH₃), 3.33 (s, 2H exchangeable, —NH₂), 3.81 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.05 (q, 2H, OCH₂), 6.22(d, 1H Ar), 6.28 (dd, 1H Ar), 6.71 (d, 1H Ar).

[0574] 3,4-diethoxyaniline, XXab.

[0575] By replacing 2-ethoxy-1-methoxy-4-nitrobenzene (XIXaa) in example XXaa by 1,2-diethoxy-4-nitrobenzene (XIXab) and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 80%. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 1.36-1.46 (m, 6H, 2 times —CH₃), 3.44 (s, 2H exchangeable, —NH₂), 3.97-4.07 (m, 4H, 2×OCH₂), 6.19 (dd, 1H Ar), 6.23 (d, 1H Ar), 6.73 (d, 1H Ar).

[0576] (2-amino-4,5-dimethoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methanone, XXIaa.

[0577] Under an inert atmosphere at 0° C., add to a solution of 35 ml of boron tribromide (1M/CH₂Cl₂, 35.8 mmol), 5 g of 3,4-dimethoxyaniline (32.6 mmol) dissolved in 30 ml of dichloroethane, 6.7 ml of benzonitrile (65.2 mmol), and 4.79 g of AlCl₃ (35.8 mmol). Stir at room temperature for 30 minutes. Evaporate the dichloromethane. Heat under reflux for 12 hours. Allow to cool. Add 35 ml of 1 M HCl at 0° C., stir at 75° C. for 1 hour. Add 150 ml of water and extract three times with 200 ml of CH₂Cl₂. Dry the organic fractions on Na₂SO₄. Purify by chromatography (AcOEt 1/hexane 2). One obtains 6.1 g of the abovenamed product as a yellow powder. Yield: 73%. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 3.66 (s, 3H, —OCH₃), 3.92 (s, 3H, —OCH₃), 6.22 (s, 2H exchangeable+1H, 1H Ar⁺-NH₂), 6.95 (s, 1H Ar), 7.46-7.51 (m, 3H Ar), 7.61-7.64 (m, 2H Ar).

[0578] (2-amino-4-bromophenyl)(4-bromophenyl)methanone, XXIab.

[0579] By replacing 3,4-dimethoxyaniline in example XXIaa by 3-bromoaniline, and benzonitrile by 4-bromobenzonitrile, and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 17%. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): 6.18 (s, 2H exchangeable, —NH₂), 6.76 (dd, 1H Ar), 6.97 (d, 1H Ar), 7.30 (t, 1H Ar), 7.61 (AB system, ? d=0.13, J_(AB)=8.3, 4H Ar).

[0580] (2-amino-5-iodophenyl) [3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]methanone, XXIac.

[0581] By replacing 3,4-dimethoxyaniline in example XXIaa by 4-iodoaniline, and benzonitrile by 3-trifluoromethyl-benzonitrile, and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 10%. ¹H-NMR (DMSO, 300 MHz): d 6.41 (d, 2H Ar), 6.74 (m, 1H Ar), 7.06 (d, 1H Ar), 7.26-7.38 (m, 2H Ar), 7.55-7.58 (m, 1H Ar).

[0582] 2-amino-3-bromo-4,5-dimethoxybenzophenone, XXIad

[0583] To a solution of 900 mg (3.5 mmol) of (2-amino-4,5-dimethoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methanone (XXIaa) in 60 ml of DMSO, add dropwise at 0° C. 15 g of HBr 40% by weight in water. Heat at 60° C. for 24 hours. Add 400 ml of H₂O and extract four times with 200 ml of AcOEt; dry on MgSO₄, evaporate the AcOEt and purify by silica chromatography (AcOEt 1/hexane 4). Yield: 65%. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 3.67 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.97 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 6.59 (s, 2H, NH₂), 7.06 (s, 1H Ar), 7.47-7.65 (m, 5H Ar). Mass: (M+H)⁺=335.98+337.98.

[0584] (2-amino-5-methoxyphenyl)13-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]methanone, XXIae.

[0585] By replacing 3,4-dimethoxyaniline in example XXIaa by 4-methoxyaniline, and benzonitrile by 3-trifluoromethyl-benzonitrile, and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 23%. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 3.70 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 6.18-6.24 (m, 2H Ar), 6.35 (s, 2H exchangeable, —NH₂), 7.35-7.81 (m, 6H Ar).

[0586] (2-amino-4,5-dimethoxyphenyl)(4-bromophenyl)methanone, XXIaf.

[0587] By replacing benzonitrile in example XXIaa by 4-bromobenzonitrile and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 82%. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 3.67 (s, 3H, —OCH₃), 3.91 (s, 3H, —OCH₃), 6.20 (s, 2H exchangeable+1H, 1H Ar⁺-NH₂), 6.86 (s, 1H Ar), 7.55 (AB system, ? d=0.10, J_(AB)=8.7, 4H Ar).

[0588] (2-amino-4,5-diethoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methanone, XXIag.

[0589] By replacing 3,4-dimethoxyaniline in example XXIaa by 3,4-diethoxyaniline (XXab). By purifying by chromatography (AcOEt 1/hexane 4), and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 35%. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 1.32 (t, 3H, —CH₃), 1.48 (t, 3H, —CH₃), 3.85 (q, 2H, OCH₂), 4.10 (q, 2H, OCH₂), 6.19 (s, 1H Ar), 6.23 (s, 2H exchangeable, —NH₂), 6.99 (s, 1H Ar), 7.42-7.62 (m, 5H Ar).

[0590] (7-amino-2,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodioxin-6-yl)(phenyl)methanone, XXIah.

[0591] By replacing 3,4-dimethoxyaniline in example XXIaa by 2,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodioxin-6-amine and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 49%. The product is used as is.

[0592] (2-amino-4,5-dimethoxyphenyl)(3-bromophenyl)methanone, XXIai.

[0593] By replacing benzonitrile in example XXIaa by 3-bromobenzonitrile and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 32%. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 3.70 (s, 3H, —OCH₃), 3.95 (s, 3H, —OCH₃), 6.23 (s, 1H Ar), 6.28 (s, 2H exchangeable, —NH₂), 6.88 (s, 1H Ar), 7.32 (s, 1H Ar), 7.40 (s, 1H Ar), 7.53-7.59 (m, 1H Ar), 7.63-7.69 (m, 1H Ar), 7.78-7.80 (m, 1H Ar).

[0594] (2-amino-4,5-dimethoxyphenyl)(2-bromophenyl)methanone, XXIaj.

[0595] By replacing benzonitrile in example XXIaa by 2-bromobenzonitrile and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 30%. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 3.60 (s, 3H, —OCH₃), 3.92 (s, 3H, —OCH₃), 6.20 (s, 1H Ar), 6.51 (s, 2H exchangeable, —NH₂), 6.57 (s, 1H Ar), 7.29-7.42 (m, 3H Ar), 6.64-7.69 (m, 1H Ar).

[0596] (2-amino-4-ethoxy-5-methoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methanone, XXIak.

[0597] By replacing 3,4-dimethoxyaniline in example XXIaa by 3-ethoxy-4-methoxyaniline (XXaa). By purifying by chromatography (AcOEt 1/hexane 4) and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 53%. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 1.52 (t, 3H, —CH₃), 3.66 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.13 (q, 2H, OCH₂), 6.19 (s, 2H exchangeable, —NH₂), 6.20 (s, 1H Ar) 6.95 (s, 1H Ar), 7.43-7.64 (m, 5H Ar).

[0598] (2-amino-4-methoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methanone, XXIal.

[0599] By replacing 3,4-dimethoxyaniline in example XXIaa by 3-methoxyaniline. By purifying by chromatography (AcOEt 1/hexane 4) and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 68%. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 3.82 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 6.15-6.20 (m, 2H Ar), 6.37 (s, 2H exchangeable, —NH₂), 7.38-7.65 (m, 6H Ar).

[0600] (2-amino-5-methoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methanone, XXIam.

[0601] By replacing 3,4-dimethoxyaniline in example XXIaa by 4-methoxyaniline. By purifying by chromatography (AcOEt 1/hexane 4) and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 43%. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 3.66 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 5.72 (s, 2H exchangeable, —NH₂), 6.73 (d, 1H Ar), 6.96-7.02 (m, 2H Ar), 7.44-7.54 (m, 3H Ar), 7.67-7.70 (m, 2H Ar).

[0602] (2-amino-5-hydroxy-4-methoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methanone, XXIan.

[0603] To 400 mg (1.55 mmol) of (2-amino-4,5-dimethoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methanone (XXIaa), add dropwise 2.1 ml of HBr 40% by weight in water. Heat at 95° C. for 12 hours. At 0° C. add ammonia to pH=8.9. Add 100 ml H₂O and extract three times with 100 ml of CH₂Cl₂. Dry on MgSO₄, evaporate the CH₂Cl₂ and purify by silica chromatography (AcOEt 1/hexane 4 then 1/1). Yield: 45%. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 3.92 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 6.20 (s, 1H Ar), 7.00 (s, 1H Ar), 7.42-7.61 (m, 5H Ar).

[0604] (2-amino-5-ethoxy-4-methoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methanone, XXIao.

[0605] At 0° C. under an inert atmosphere, add 50 mg (1.25 mmol) of 60% NaH in oil to a solution of 300 mg (1.23 mmol) of (2-amino-5-hydroxy-4-methoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methanone (XXIan) in 5 ml of DMF. Stir at room temperature for 1 hour. Add dropwise at 0° C. 210 mg (1.35 mmol) of ethyl iodide. Stir at room temperature overnight. Add 50 ml of H₂O and extract three times with 50 ml of AcOEt; dry on MgSO₄, evaporate the AcOEt and purify by silica chromatography (AcOEt 1/hexane 1). Yield: 85%. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 1.26-1.36 (m, 3H, OCH₂CH₃), 3.81-3.87 (m, 2H, OCH₂CH₃), 3.90 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 6.20 (s, 1H Ar), 6.96 (s, 1H Ar), 7.42-7.61 (m, 4H Ar).

[0606] 4.2. Synthesis of compounds represented by formula XXII

[0607] The following compounds were synthesized:

[0608] 7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, XXIIaa.

[0609] 8-bromo-5-(4-bromophenyl)-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, XXIIab.

[0610] 7-iodo-5-[3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, XXIIac.

[0611] 7,8-dimethoxy-3-isobutyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, XXIIad.

[0612] 7-methoxy-5-[3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, XXIIae.

[0613] 5-(4-bromophenyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, XXIIaf.

[0614] 7,8-diethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, XXIIag.

[0615] 10-phenyl-2,3,6,8-tetrahydro-7H-[1,4] dioxino [2,3-h][1,4]benzodiazepin-7-one, XXIIah.

[0616] 7,8-diethoxy-3-methyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, XXIIai.

[0617] 3-benzyl-7,8-diethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, XXIIaj.

[0618] 5-(3-bromophenyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, XXIIak.

[0619] 5-(2-bromophenyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, XXIIal.

[0620] 8-ethoxy-7-methoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, XXIIam.

[0621] 8-methoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, XXIIan.

[0622] 7-methoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, XXIIao.

[0623] 3-benzyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, XXIIap.

[0624] 7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, XXIIaq.

[0625] 7,8-dimethoxy-3-(1H-imidazol-4-ylmethyl)-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, XXIIar.

[0626] 7,8-dimethoxy-3-(1H-indol-3-ylmethyl)-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, XXIIas.

[0627] 7,8-dimethoxy-3-(2-methylthioethyl)-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, XXIIat.

[0628] (S) 3-benzyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, XXIIau.

[0629] (7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-3-yl)benzyl (S)-butylcarbamate, XXIIav.

[0630] (S)-3-(4-aminobutyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, XXIIaw.

[0631] (S)-N-[4-(7,8-dimethoxy-2-oxo-5-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-3-yl)butyl]acetamide, XXIIax.

[0632] N-[4-(7,8-dimethoxy-2-oxo-5-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-3-yl)butyl]guanidinium (S)-bis trifluoroacetate, XXIIay.

[0633] 7,8-dimethoxy-3,5-diphenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, XXIIaz.

[0634] 3,5-diphenyl-8-ethoxy-7-methoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, XXIIba.

[0635] 3-benzyl-8-ethoxy-7-methoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, XXIIbb.

[0636] 5-phenyl-7-ethoxy-8-methoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, XXIIbc.

[0637] 7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, XXIIaa.

[0638] Heat under reflux for 36 hours under an inert atmosphere a mixture of 4.5 g (17.6 mmol) of (2-amino-4,5-dimethoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methanone (XXIaa), 5 g (36 mmol) of ethyl glycinate hydrochloride, and 30 ml of anhydrous pyridine. Add four 2.5 g (18 mmol) fractions of ethyl glycinate hydrochloride, every 6 hours. Allow to equilibrate to room temperature. Evaporate to dryness. Add 200 ml of water. Extract three times with 300 ml of dichloromethane. Dry the organic fractions on Na₂SO₄ Purify by chromatography (AcOEt 3/hexane 1/3% triethylamine). Recrystallize in EtOH/EtO₂. One obtains 2.2 g of the abovenamed product in the form of colorless crystals. Yield: 43%. M:248-250° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 3.71 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.95 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.31 (s, 2H, CH₂), 6.64 (s, 1H Ar), 6.70 (s, 1H Ar), 7.27-7.59 (m, 5H Ar), 9.40 (s, 1H exchangeable, —NH).

[0639] 8-bromo-5-(4-bromophenyl)-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, XXIIab.

[0640] By replacing (2-amino-4,5-dimethoxyphenyl)(phenyl) methanone (XXIaa) in example XXIIaa by (2-amino-4-bromophenyl)(4-bromophenyl) methanone (XXIab) and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 3%. M: 299° C. ¹H-NMR (DMSO, 200 MHz): d 4.18 (s, 2H, CH₂), 7.21 (d, 1H Ar), 7.35-7.46 (m, 5H Ar), 7.63-7.68 (m, 2H Ar), 10.65 (s, 1H exchangeable, —NH).

[0641] 7-iodo-5-[3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, XXIIac.

[0642] By replacing (2-amino-4,5-dimethoxyphenyl)(phenyl) methanone (XXIaa) in example XXIIaa by (2-amino-5-iodophenyl)[3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]methanone (XXIac) and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 5%. M: 209° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 4.36 (s, 2H, CH₂), 6.92 (d, 1H Ar), 7.51-7.59 (m, 2H Ar), 7.76-7.89 (m, 4H Ar), 8.30 (s, 1H exchangeable, —NH).

[0643] 7,8-dimethoxy-3-isobutyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, XXIIad.

[0644] By replacing ethyl glycinate hydrochloride in example XXIIaa by ethyl leucinate hydrochloride and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 30%. M: 198-201° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 0.85-0.87 (m, 3H, CH₃), 1.03-1.05 (m, 3H, CH₃), 1.94-2.05 (m, 2H, CH₂), 2.3-2.4 (m, 1HCH₂), 3.62-3.68 (m, 1HCH₂), 3.74 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.96 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 6.63 (s, 1H Ar), 6.73 (s, 1H Ar), 7.37-7.58 (m, 5H Ar), 9.04 (s, 1H, NH).

[0645] 7-methoxy-5-[3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, XXIIae.

[0646] By replacing (2-amino-4,5-dimethoxyphenyl)(phenyl) methanone (XXIaa) in example XXIIaa by (2-amino-5-methoxyphenyl)[3-(trifluoromethyl) phenyl]methanone (XXIae) and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 75%. M: 197-199° C. ¹H-NMR (DMSO, 300 MHz): d 3.68 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.16 (s, 2H, CH₂), 6.74 (s, 1H Ar), 7,23 (s, 1H Ar), 7.68-7.90 (m, 4H Ar), 10.41 (s, 1H exchangeable, —NH).

[0647] 5-(4-bromophenyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, XXIIaf.

[0648] By replacing (2-amino-4,5-dimethoxyphenyl)(phenyl) methanone (XXIaa) in example XXIIaa by (2-amino-4,5-dimethoxyphenyl)(4-bromophenyl) methanone (XXIaf) and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 43%. Yield: 73%. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 3.74 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.96 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.30 (s, 2H, CH₂), 6.78 (s, 1H Ar), 6.80 (s, 1H Ar), 7.50 (AB system, ? d=0.08, J_(AB)=8.3, 4H Ar), 8.75 (s, 1H exchangeable, —NH).

[0649] 7,8-diethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, XXIIag.

[0650] By replacing (2-amino-4,5-dimethoxyphenyl)(phenyl) methanone (XXIaa) in example XXIIaa by (2-amino-4,5-diethoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methanone (XXIag) and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 60%. M: 233-236° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 1.39 (t, 3H, CH₃), 1.54 (t, 3H, CH₃), 3.94 (q, 2H, OCH₂), 4.18 (q, 2H, OCH₂), 4.35 (s, 2H, CH₂), 6.66 (s, 1H Ar), 6.74 (s, 1H Ar), 7.36-7.63 (m, 5H Ar), 9,51 (s, 1H exchangeable, —NH).

[0651] 10-phenyl-2,3,6,8-tetrahydro-7H-[1,4] dioxino [2,3-h][1,4]benzodiazepin-7-one, XXIIah.

[0652] By replacing (2-amino-4,5-dimethoxyphenyl)(phenyl) methanone (XXIaa) in example XXIIaa by (7-amino-2,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodioxin-6-yl)(phenyl) methanone (XXIah) and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 15%. M: 263-265° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 4.21-4.49 (m, 6H, —OCH₂CH₂O—+CH₂), 6.64 (s, 1H Ar), 6.80 (s, 1H Ar), 7.32-7.58 (m, 5H Ar), 8,37 (s, 1H exchangeable, —NH).

[0653] 7,8-diethoxy-3-methyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, XXIIai.

[0654] By replacing (2-amino-4,5-dimethoxyphenyl)(phenyl) methanone (XXIaa) in example XXIIaa by (2-amino-4,5-diethoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methanone (XXIag), and ethyl glycinate hydrochloride by methyl analilate hydrochloride, and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 13%. M:195-198° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 1.39 (t, 3H, CH₃), 1.54 (t, 3H, CH₃), 1.77 (d, 3H, CH₃), 3.80 (q, 1H, CH), 3.94 (q, 2H, OCH₂), 4.18 (q, 2H, OCH₂), 6.64 (s, 1H Ar), 6.75 (s, 1H Ar), 7.36-7.63 (m, 5H Ar), 9.10 (s, 1H exchangeable, —NH).

[0655] 3-benzyl-7,8-diethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, XXIIaj.

[0656] By replacing (2-amino-4,5-dimethoxyphenyl)(phenyl) methanone (XXIaa) in example XXIIaa by (2-amino-4,5-diethoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methanone (XXIag), and ethyl glycinate hydrochloride by methyl phenylanalilate hydrochloride, and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 19%. M: 10-112° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 1.38 (t, 3H, CH₃), 1.55 (t, 3H, CH₃), 3.61-3.66 (m, 2H, CH₂), 3.82-3.98 (m, 3H, CH+OCH₂), 4.18 (q, 2H, OCH₂), 6.64 (s, 1H Ar), 6,75 (s, 1H Ar), 7.25-7.57 (m, 10H Ar), 8.65 (s, 1H exchangeable, —NH).

[0657] 5-(3-bromophenyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, XXIIak.

[0658] By replacing (2-amino-4,5-dimethoxyphenyl)(phenyl) methanone (XXIaa) in example XXIIaa by (2-amino-4,5-dimethoxyphenyl)(3-bromophenyl) methanone (XXIai) and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 72%. M: 256-258° C. ¹H-NMR (DMSO, 300 MHz): d 3.61 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.82 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.10 (s, 2H, CH₂), 6.69 (s, 1H Ar), 6.83 (s, 1H Ar), 7.37-7.45 (m, 2H Ar), 7.67-7.73 (m, 2H Ar), 10.34 (s, 1H exchangeable, —NH).

[0659] 5-(2-bromophenyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, XXIIal.

[0660] By replacing (2-amino-4,5-dimethoxyphenyl)(phenyl) methanone (XXIaa) in example XXIIaa by (2-amino-4,5-dimethoxyphenyl)(2-bromophenyl) methanone (XXIaj) and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 27%. M: 280-281° C. ¹H-NMR (DMSO, 300 MHz): d 3.49 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.81 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.12 (s, 2H, CH₂), 6.33 (s, 1H Ar), 6.80 (s, 1H Ar), 7.36-7.42 (m, 1H Ar), 7.49-7.51 (m, 2H Ar), 7.63-7.65 (m, 1H Ar), 10.43 (s, 1H exchangeable, —NH).

[0661] 8-ethoxy-7-methoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, XXIIam.

[0662] By replacing (2-amino-4,5-dimethoxyphenyl)(phenyl) methanone (XXIaa) in example XXIIaa by (2-amino-4-ethoxy-5-methoxyphenyl)(phenyl) methanone (XXIak) and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 60%. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 1.54 (t, 3H, CH₃), 3.73 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.17 (q, 2H, OCH₂), 4.33 (s, 2H, CH₂), 6.58 (s, 1H Ar), 6.73 (s, 1H Ar), 7.40-7.47 (m, 3H Ar), 7.58-7.61 (m, 3H Ar), 8.47 (s, 1H exchangeable, —NH).

[0663] 8-methoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, XXIIan.

[0664] By replacing (2-amino-4,5-dimethoxyphenyl)(phenyl) methanone (XXIaa) in example XXIIaa by (2-amino-4-methoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methanone (XXIal) and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 48%. M: 174-176° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 3.87 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.32 (s, 2H, CH₂), 6.63-6.72 (m, 2H Ar), 7.20-7.56 (m, 6H Ar), 9.33 (s, 1H exchangeable, —NH).

[0665] 7-methoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, XXIIao.

[0666] By replacing (2-amino-4,5-dimethoxyphenyl)(phenyl) methanone (XXIaa) in example XXIIaa by (2-amino-5-methoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methanone (XXIam) and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 32%. M: 220-222° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 3.72 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.32 (s, 2H, CH₂), 6.78 (m, 1H Ar), 7.01 (m, 2H Ar), 7.33-7.48 (m, 3H Ar), 7.56-7.60 (m, 2H Ar), 8.86 (s, 1H exchangeable, —NH).

[0667] 3-benzyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, XXIIap.

[0668] By replacing ethyl glycinate hydrochloride in example XXIIaa by ethyl phenylalalinate hydrochloride and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 55%. M: 216-218° C. ¹H-NMR (DMSO, 200 MHz): d 3.37-3.49 (m, 2H, CH₂), 3.58-3.71 (m, 4H, 1CH+OCH₃), 3.84 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 6.65 (s, 1H Ar), 6.82 (s, 1H Ar), 7.22-7.48 (m, 10H Ar), 10.40 (s,1H, NH).

[0669] 7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, XXIIaq.

[0670] By replacing ethyl glycinate hydrochloride in example XXIIaa by ethyl alalinate hydrochloride and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 50%. M: 247-248° C. ¹H-NMR (DMSO, 200 MHz): d 1.52-1.55 (m, 3H, CH₃), 3.62-3.65 (m, 4H, 1CH+OCH₃), 3.85 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 6.70 (s, 1H Ar), 6.82 (s, 1H Ar), 7.43-7.56 (m, 10H Ar), 10.30 (s,1H, NH). Mass: (M+H)⁺=311.12.

[0671] 7,8-dimethoxy-3-(1H-imidazol-4-ylmethyl)-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, XXIIar.

[0672] By replacing ethyl glycinate hydrochloride in example XXIIaa by ethyl histidinate dihydrochloride and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 5%. M: 195° C., degradation. ¹H-NMR (DMSO, 200 MHz): d 3.30-3.35 (m, 2H, CH₂), 3.62 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.70-3.76 (m, 1H, CH), 3.85 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 6.70 (s, 1H Ar), 6.82 (s, 1H Ar), 6.90 (s, 1H Imidazole), 7.47-7.53 (m, 5H Ar), 7.70 (s, 1H Imidazole), 10.37 (s, 1H, NH), 12.40 (broad s, 1H, NH). Mass: (M+H)⁺=377.15.

[0673] 7,8-dimethoxy-3-(1H-indol-3-ylmethyl)-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, XXIIas.

[0674] By replacing ethyl glycinate hydrochloride in example XXIIaa by ethyl tryptophanate dihydrochloride and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 10%. M: 180-185° C. ¹H-NMR (DMSO, 200 MHz): d 3.44-3.57 (m, 5H, 1CH₂+OCH₃), 3.83 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.35-4.41 (m, 1H, CH), 6.64 (s, 1H Ar), 6.80 (s, 1H Ar), 6.97-7.07 (m, 2H Ar), 7.21-7.63 (m, 7H Ar), 10.37 (s, 1H, NH), 10.83 (s, 1H, NH Indole). Mass: (M+H)⁺=426.19.

[0675] 7,8-dimethoxy-3-(2-methylthioethyl)-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, XXIIat.

[0676] By replacing ethyl glycinate hydrochloride in example XXIIaa by ethyl methionate hydrochloride and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 15%. M: 126-128° C. ¹H-NMR (DMSO, 300 MHz): d 2.04 (s, 3H, SCH₃), 2.49-2.51 (m, 2H, SCH₂), 2.59-2.72 (m, 2H, CH₂), 3.57-3.62 (m, 4H, 1CH+OCH₃), 3.83 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 6.68 (s, 1H Ar), 6.81 (s, 1H Ar), 7.42-7.54 (m, 5H Ar), 10.37 (s, 1H, NH). Mass: (M+H)⁺=371.12.

[0677] (S)-3-benzyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, XXIIau.

[0678] By replacing ethyl glycinate hydrochloride in example XXIIaa by ethyl L-phenylalalinate hydrochloride and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 50%. ¹H-NMR (DMSO, 200 MHz): d 3.28-3.45 (m, 2H, CH₂), 3.55-3.68 (m, 4H, 1CH+OCH₃), 3.80 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 6.61 (s, 1H Ar), 6.78 (s, 1H Ar), 7.15-7.43 (m, 10H Ar), 10.34 (s, 1H, NH). Mass: (M+H)⁺=387.14.

[0679] (7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-3-yl)benzyl (S)-butylcarbamate, XXIIav.

[0680] By replacing ethyl glycinate hydrochloride in example XXIIaa by 377 lysine Z hydrochloride and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 20%. M: 95-98° C. ¹H-NMR (DMSO, 300 MHz): d 1.26-1.44 (m, 4H, 2CH₂), 1.95-1.97 (m, 2H, CH₂), 2.95-3.03 (m, 2H, CH₂), 3.31-3.35 (m, H, CH), 3.55 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.81 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.95 (s, 2H, CH₂), 6.62 (s, 1H Ar), 6.77 (s, 1H Ar), 7.20-7.29 (m, 6H, 1NH+5H Ar), 7.39-7.47 (m, 5H Ar), 10.29 (s, 1H, NH). Mass: (M+H)⁺=502.25.

[0681] (S)-3-(4-aminobutyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, XXIIaw.

[0682] Stir a mixture of 60 mg (0.12 mmol) of (7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-3-yl)benzyl (S)-butylcarbamate (XXIIav), 6 mg of Pd/C 10% by weight in 10 ml of MeOH under an H₂ atmosphere at room temperature and pressure for 24 hours. Filter the suspension on celite, rinse three times with 10 ml of MeOH. Evaporate to dryness and purify by silica chromatography (AcOEt then AcOEt 5/CH₂Cl₂ 4/EtOH 1). Yield: 68%. ¹H-NMR (DMSO, 200 MHz): d 1.55-1.63 (m, 4H, 2CH₂), 1.98-2.09 (m, 2H, CH₂), 2.75-2.81 (m, 2H, CH₂), 3.60 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.69-3.74 (m, H, CH), 3.84 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 6.67 (s, 1H Ar), 6.82 (s, 1H Ar), 7.41-7.53 (m, 5H Ar), 8.26 (broad s, 2H, NH₂), 10.37 (s, 1H, NH). Mass: (M+H)⁺=368.21.

[0683] (S)-N-[4-(7,8-dimethoxy-2-oxo-5-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-3-yl)butyl]acetamide, XXIIax.

[0684] To a solution of 20 mg (0.054 mmol) of (S)-3-(4-aminobutyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one (XXIIaw), add dropwise 11 mg (0.135 mmol) of pyridine in 2 ml of CH₂Cl₂, 6.5 mg (0.065 mmol) of acetic anhydride. Stir for 24 hours. Evaporate to dryness and purify by silica chromatography (AcOEt then AcOEt 5/CH₂Cl₂ 4/EtOH 1). Yield: 98%. M: 82-84° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 1.45-1.66 (m, 4H, 2CH₂), 1.97 (s, 3H, COCH₃), 2.22-2.27 (m, 2H, CH₂), 3.25-3.35 (m, 2H, CH₂), 3.53-3.57 (m, H, CH), 3.75 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.96 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 5.76 (broad s, 1H, ACNH), 6.57 (s, 1H Ar), 6.74 (s, 1H Ar), 7.39-7.58 (m, 5H Ar),), 8.07 (s, 1H, NH). Mass: (M+H)⁺=410.21.

[0685] N-[4-(7,8-dimethoxy-2-oxo-5-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-3-yl)butyl]guanidinium (S)-bis trifluoroacetate, XXIIay.

[0686] To a solution of 14 mg (0.04 mmol) of 1H-pyrazole-1-[N,N′-bis(ter-butoxycarbohyl)carboxamide] in 1 ml of anhydrous CH₃CN, add 20 mg (0.054 mmol) of (S)-3-(4-aminobutyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one (XXIIaw). Stir for 12 hours. Evaporate to dryness and purify by silica chromatography (AcOEt 1/hexane 4). Add 2 ml of TFA at 0° C. and stir at room temperature for 3 hours. Evaporate the TFA, take up in AcOEt, remove the supernatant, triturate in Et₂O, dry. Yield: 30%. Mass: (M+H)⁺=410.15.

[0687] 7,8-dimethoxy-3,5-diphenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, XXIIaz.

[0688] By replacing ethyl glycinate hydrochloride in example XXIIaa by ethyl phenylglycinate hydrochloride and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 55%. M: 202-204° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 3.62-3.78 (m, 4H, CH+OCH₃), 3.93 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 6.61 (s, 1H Ar), 6.66 (s, 1H Ar), 7.24-7.50 (m, 10H Ar), 9.14 (s, 1H, NH).

[0689] 3,5-diphenyl-8-ethoxy-7-methoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, XXIIba.

[0690] By replacing (2-amino-4,5-dimethoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methanone (XXIaa) in example XXIIaa by (2-amino-4-ethoxy-5-methoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methanone XXIak, and ethyl glycinate hydrochloride by ethyl phenylglycinate hydrochloride, and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 55%. M: 168-169° C. ¹H-NMR (DMSO, 200 MHz): d 1.38-1.42 (m, 3H, CH₃), 3.65 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.98-4.18 (m, 2H, CH₂), 4.76 (s, 1H, CH), 6.78 (s, 1H Ar), 6.88 (s, 1H Ar), 7.38-7.58 (m, 10H Ar), 10.49 (s, 1H, NH).

[0691] 3-benzyl-8-ethoxy-7-methoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, XXIIbb.

[0692] By replacing (2-amino-4,5-dimethoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methanone (XXIaa) in example XXIIaa by (2-amino-4-ethoxy-5-methoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methanone (XXIak), and ethyl glycinate hydrochloride by ethyl phenylalalinate hydrochloride, and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 55%. M: 190-193° C. ¹H-NMR (DMSO, 200 MHz): d 1.33-1.39 (m, 3H, CH₃), 3.36-3.64 (m, 3H, CH+CH₂Bn), 3.73 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.95-4.10 (m, 2H, CH₂), 6.59 (s, 1H Ar), 6.77 (s, 1H Ar), 7.21-7.44 (m, 10H Ar), 10.36 (s, 1H, NH).

[0693] 5-phenyl-7-ethoxy-8-methoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, XXIIbc.

[0694] By replacing (2-amino-4,5-dimethoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methanone (XXIaa) in example XXIIaa by (2-amino-5-ethoxy-4-methoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methanone (XXIao) and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 45%. M: C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 1.36-1.44 (m, 3H, CH₃), 3.88-4.00 (m, 5H, OCH₂+OCH₃), 4.30-4.42 (m, 2H, CH₂), 6.62 (s, 1H Ar), 6.73 (s, 1H Ar), 7.44-7.58 (m, 10H Ar), 8.88 (s, 1H, NH).

[0695] 4.3. Synthesis of compounds represented by formula II

[0696] The following compounds were synthesized:

[0697] 5-(4-bromophenyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-11,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIba.

[0698] 3-benzyl-8-ethoxy-1-ethyl-7-methoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIbb.

[0699] 1-benzyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIbc.

[0700] 1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIbd.

[0701] 7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1-propyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIbe.

[0702] 7,8-diethoxy-1-methyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIbf.

[0703] 7,8-diethoxy-1-ethyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIbg.

[0704] 7,8-dimethoxy-1-ethyl-3-(2-nitrobenzyl)-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIbh.

[0705] ethyl (7,8-diethoxy-2-oxo-5-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-1-yl)acetate, IIbi.

[0706] 1-benzyl-7,8-diethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIbj.

[0707] 1-ethyl-7,8-dihydroxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIbk.

[0708] 5-(4-bromophenyl)-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIbl.

[0709] 5-(3-bromophenyl)-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIbm.

[0710] 5-{4-[3-(benzyloxy)prop-1-ynyl]phenyl}-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIbn.

[0711] tert-butyl 3-[4-(1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-5-yl)phenyl]prop-2-ynylcarbamate, IIbo.

[0712] 5-(1,1′-biphenyl-4-yl)-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIbp.

[0713] 3-(4-chlorobenzyl)-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIbq.

[0714] 1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-[4-(phenylethynyl)phenyl]-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIbr.

[0715] 3-allyl-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIbs.

[0716] 1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-3-prop-2-ynyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIbt.

[0717] 1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-[4-(2-phenylethyl)phenyl]-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIbu.

[0718] ethyl (1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-2-oxo-5-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-3-yl)acetate, IIbv.

[0719] 1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-[3-(phenylethynyl)phenyl]-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIbw.

[0720] 3-(3,5-dibromobenzyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-ethyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIbx.

[0721] 7,8-dimethoxy-3-(diphenylhydroxymethyl)-1-ethyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIby.

[0722] 7,8-dimethoxy-1-ethyl-3-(E-3-phenylpropen-2yl)-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIbz.

[0723] 7,8-dimethoxy-1-ethyl-3-(2-aminobenzyl)-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIca.

[0724] (1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-2-oxo-5-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-3-yl)acetonitrile, IIcb.

[0725] 3-(2-bromobenzyl)-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIcc.

[0726] 3-(4-bromobenzyl)-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIcd.

[0727] 3-(2-cyanobenzyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-ethyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIce.

[0728] N-[2-(7,8-dimethoxy-2-oxo-5-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-3-yl)benzyl]acetamide, IIcf.

[0729] 3-(2-aminomethylbenzyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-ethyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIcg.

[0730] 3-[(3-bromophenyl)(hydroxy)methyl]-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIch.

[0731] [(7,8-dimethoxy-1-ethyl-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-3-yl)benz-2-yl]carboxamide, IIci.

[0732] 3-(3-bromobenzyl)-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIcj.

[0733] 3-(1,1′-biphenyl-4-ylmethyl)-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIck.

[0734] 3-(1-benzyl-4-hydroxypiperidin-4-yl)-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIcl.

[0735] N-[2-(7,8-dimethoxy-2-oxo-5-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-3-yl)benzyl]methylacetamide, 11 cm.

[0736] 3-(4-chlorobenzyl)-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIcn.

[0737] 3-(2,4-dichlorobenzyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-ethyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIco.

[0738] 3-[(1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-2-oxo-5-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-3-yl)methyl]benzonitrile, IIcp.

[0739] 3-benzyl-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIcq.

[0740] 1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-3-(2-methoxybenzyl)-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIcr.

[0741] 3-[(1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-2-oxo-5-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-3-yl)methyl]benzamide, IIcs.

[0742] 3-[3-(aminomethyl)benzyl]-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIct.

[0743] 3-(1,1′-biphenyl-3-ylmethyl)-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIcu.

[0744] 3-benzyl-7,8-diethoxy-1-ethyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIcv.

[0745] 2-(1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-2-oxo-5-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-3-yl)acetamide, IIcw.

[0746] 7,8-dimethoxy-1-(2-hydroxyethyl)-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIcx.

[0747] 3-(2-chlorobenzyl)-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIcy.

[0748] 1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-3-(2-methylbenzyl)-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIcz.

[0749] 8-ethoxy-7-methoxy-1-methyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIda.

[0750] 1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-3-[3-(trifluoromethyl)benzyl]-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIdb.

[0751] 1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-3-(3-methoxybenzyl)-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIdc.

[0752] 1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-3-(4-methylbenzyl)-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIdd.

[0753] 3-[1,2-bis(4-bromophenyl)ethyl]-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIde.

[0754] 3-[(8-ethoxy-7-methoxy-1-methyl-2-oxo-5-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-3-yl)methyl]benzonitrile, IIdf.

[0755] 2-[(8-ethoxy-7-methoxy-1-methyl-2-oxo-5-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-3-yl)methyl]benzonitrile, IIdg.

[0756] 3-[(8-ethoxy-7-methoxy-1-methyl-2-oxo-5-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-3-yl)methyl]benzamide, IIdh.

[0757] 3-(2,5-dichlorobenzyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-ethyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIdi.

[0758] (S)-3-benzyl-7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIdj.

[0759] 3,5-diphenyl-8-ethoxy-1-ethyl-7-methoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIdk.

[0760] 7-methoxy-1-methyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIdl.

[0761] 8-methoxy-1-methyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIdm.

[0762] 5-(4-bromophenyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIba.

[0763] To a solution of 100 mg (0.267 mmol) of 5-(4-bromophenyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one (XXIIaf) in 2 ml of anhydrous DMF, add under an inert atmosphere 48 mg (0.35 mmol) of K₂CO₃. After 30 minutes at room temperature, add dropwise 25 μl (0.4 mmol) of MeI. Allow to stand at room temperature for 12 hours. Add 30 ml of water. Extract three times with 30 ml of EtO₂. Dry the organic fractions on Na₂SO₄. Purify by chromatography (AcOEt 1/hexane 1). Recrystallize in EtO₂. One obtains 78 mg of the abovenamed product as a white powder. Yield: 73%. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 3.40 (s, 3H, NCH₃), 3.75 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.99 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.29 (AB system, ? d=1.014, J_(AB)=10.7, 2H, CH₂), 6.65 (s, 1H Ar), 6.78 (s, 1H Ar), 7.54 (s, 4H Ar).

[0764] 3-benzyl-8-ethoxy-1-ethyl-7-methoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIbb.

[0765] By replacing 5-(4-bromophenyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one (XXIIaf) in example IIba by 3-benzyl-8-ethoxy-7-methoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one (XXIIbb), and methyl iodide by ethyl iodide, and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 65%. F: 228-230° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 1.03-1.08 (m, 3H, NCH₂CH₃), 1.50-1.54 (m, 3H, OCH₂CH₃), 3.59-3.65 (m, 3H, 1HNCH₂+CH₂Bn), 3.70 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.77-3.83 (m, 1H, 1CH), 4.12-4.18 (m, 2H, OCH₂), 4.30-4.41 (m, 1H, 1HNCH₂), 6.62 (s, 1H Ar), 6.79 (s, 1H Ar), 7.22-7.59 (m, 10H Ar).

[0766] 1-benzyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIbc.

[0767] By replacing 5-(4-bromophenyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one (XXIIaf) in example IIba by 7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one (XXIIaa), and MeI by benzyl bromide, and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 64%. M: 148-149° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 3.67 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.83 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.38 (AB system, ? d=0.96, J_(AB)=10.0 2H, CH₂), 5.15 (AB system, ? d=0.70, J_(AB)=15.4, 2H, —NCH₂), 6.56 (s, 1H Ar), 6.81 (s, 1H Ar), 7.07-7.46 (m, 10H Ar).

[0768] 1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIbd.

[0769] By replacing 5-(4-bromophenyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one (XXIIaf) in example IIba by 7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one (XXIIaa), and MeI by ethyl iodide, and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 62%. M: 86-88° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 1.15 (t, 3H, CH₃), 3.80 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.01 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.03 (AB system, ? d=0.61, J_(AB)=13.9, 2H, —NCH₂), 4.30 (AB system, ? d=1.00, J_(AB)=9.98, 2H, CH₂), 6.71 (s, 1H Ar), 6.88 (s, 1H Ar), 7.40-7.69 (m, 5H Ar).

[0770] 7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1-propyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIbe.

[0771] By replacing 5-(4-bromophenyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one (XXIIaf) in example IIba by 7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one (XXIIaa), and MeI by (n)-propyl bromide, and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 33%. M: 136-138° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 0.75 (t, 3H, CH₃), 1.48 (m, 2H, CH₂), 3.75 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.97 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.94 (AB system, ? d=0.87 J_(AB)=13.4, 2H, —NCH₂), 4.28 (AB system, ? d=0.97, J_(AB)=10.26, 2H, CH₂), 6.68 (s, 1H Ar), 6.84 (s, 1H Ar), 7.40-7.66 (m, 5H Ar).

[0772] 7,8-diethoxy-1-methyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIbf.

[0773] By replacing 5-(4-bromophenyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one (XXIIaf) in example IIba by 7,8-diethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one (XXIIag) and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 28%. M: 116-118° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 1.40 (t, 3H, CH₃), 1.56 (t, 3H, CH₃), 3.42 (s, 3H, NCH₃), 3.97 (q, 2H, OCH₂), 4.21 (q, 2H, OCH₂), 4.33 (AB system, ? d=0.98 J_(AB)=10.5, 2H, CH₂), 6.74 (s, 1H Ar), 6.81 (s, 1H Ar), 7.42-7.70 (m, 5H Ar).

[0774] 7,8-diethoxy-1-ethyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIbg.

[0775] By replacing 5-(4-bromophenyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one (XXIIaf) in example IIba by 7,8-diethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one (XXIIag), and MeI by ethyl iodide, and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 59%. M: 99-102° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 1.11 (t, 3H, CH₃), 1.36 (t, 3H, CH₃), 1.53 (t, 3H, CH₃), 3.93 (q, 2H, OCH₂), 3.97 (AB system, ?d=0.67, J_(AB)=14.0, 2H, —NCH₂), 4.17 (q, 2H, OCH₂), 4.28 (AB system, ?d=0.96 J_(AB)=10.0, 2H, CH₂), 6.68 (s, 1H Ar), 6.84 (s, 1H Ar),

[0776] 7.38-7.64 (m, 5H Ar). 7,8-dimethoxy-1-ethyl-3-(2-nitrobenzyl)-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIbh.

[0777] To a solution of 920 μl (1.84 mmol) of 2M LDA/THF in 5 ml of anhydrous THF, add dropwise at −78° C. under an inert atmosphere a solution of 300 mg (0.92 mmol) of 1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one (IIbd) in 2 ml of THF. Allow to equilibrate to room temperature for 30 minutes. Add dropwise at −30° C. a solution of 220 mg (1.01 mmol) of 2-nitrobenzyl bromide in 2 ml of THF. Stir at room temperature for 12 hours. Add 1 ml of H₂O. Evaporate the THF. Purify by silica chromatography (AcOEt 1/hexane 4, 1/1, then AcOEt). Recrystallize in EtOH/cHexane. Yield: 35%. M: 158-160° C. ¹H-NMR (DMSO, 300 MHz): d 0.87-0.91 (m, 3H, CH₃), 3.61-3.99 (m, 10H, NCH+CHCH₂+20CH₃), 4.35-4.40 (m, 1H, NCH), 6.60 (s, 1H Ar), 6.82 (s, 1 H Ar), 7.37-7.90 (m, 9H Ar). Mass: (M+H)⁺=460.88.

[0778] ethyl (7,8-diethoxy-2-oxo-5-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-1-yl)acetate, IIbi.

[0779] By replacing 5-(4-bromophenyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one (XXIIaf) in example IIba by 7,8-diethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one (XXIIag), and MeI by ethyl bromoacetate, and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 55%. M: 160-162° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 1.21 (t, 3H, CH₃), 1.36 (t, 3H, CH₃), 1.50 (t, 3H, CH₃), 3.88-4.26 (m, 7H, 3×OCH₂+1H CH₂) 4.49 (AB system, ? d=0.17, J_(AB)=17.4, 2H, —NCH₂), 4.80 (m, 1H CH₂), 6.71 (s, 1H Ar), 6.81 (s, 1H Ar), 7.27-7.69 (m, 5H Ar).

[0780] 1-benzyl-7,8-diethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIbj.

[0781] By replacing 5-(4-bromophenyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one (XXIIaf) in example IIba by 7,8-diethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one (XXIIag), and MeI by benzyl bromide, and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 32%. M: 158-160° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 1.33 (t, 3H, CH₃), 1.40 (t, 3H, CH₃), 3.84-3.95 (m, 3H, OCH₂+1H CH₂) 4.04 (q, 2H OCH₂), 4.87 (m, 1H CH₂), 5.15 (AB system, ? d=0.74, J_(AB)=15.4, 2H, —NCH₂), 6.58 (s, 1H Ar), 6.81 (s, 1H Ar), 7.07-7.46 (m, 10H Ar).

[0782] 1-ethyl-7,8-dihydroxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIbk.

[0783] Add dropwise at 0° C. under an inert atmosphere, 0.68 ml of a 1 M solution of BBr₃ (0.68 mmol) in CH₂Cl₂ on 200 mg (0.62 mmol) of 7,8-diethoxy-1-ethyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one (IIbg) in 5 ml of dichloromethane. Stir at room temperature for 12 hours. Quench at 0° C. with methanol. Evaporate to dryness. Triturate again and evaporate. Purify by chromatography (AcOEt). Recrystallize in EtO₂/pentane. One obtains 30 mg of the abovenamed product as a yellow powder. Yield: 16%. M: 230-231° C. ¹H-NMR (DMSO, 200 MHz): d 0.96 (t, 3H, CH₃), 3.80 (AB system, ? d=0.54, J_(AB)=13.7, 2H, —NCH₂), 4.05 (AB system, ? d=0.72, J_(AB)=10.0, 2H, CH₂), 6.52 (s, 1H Ar), 6.91 (s, 1H Ar), 7.42-7.55 (m, 5H Ar), 9-10.5 (hump, 2H, 2×—OH).

[0784] 5-(4-bromophenyl)-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIbl.

[0785] By replacing MeI in example IIba by iodoethane and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 76%. M: 93-95° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 1.10 (s, 3H, CH₃), 3.78 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.97 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.98 (AB system, ? d=0.54, J_(AB)=14.2, 2H, —NCH₂), 4.25 (AB system, ? d=0.98, J_(AB)=10.3, 2H, CH₂), 6.63 (s, 1H Ar), 6.84 (s, 1H Ar), 7.53 (s, 4H Ar).

[0786] 5-(3-bromophenyl)-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIbm.

[0787] By replacing 5-(4-bromophenyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one (XXIIaf) in example IIba by 5-(3-bromophenyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one (XXIIak), and MeI by ethyl iodide, and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 17%. M: 122-126° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 1.14 (s, 3H, CH₃), 3.79-3.85 (m, 4H, 1H CH₂+OCH₃), 3.99 (AB system, ? d=0.62, J_(AB)=13.9, 2H, —NCH₂), 4.04 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.78 (m, 1H, CH₂), 6.65 (s, 1H Ar), 6.86 (s, 1H Ar), 7.26-7.31 (m, 2H Ar), 7.52-7.62 (m, 2H Ar), 7.86 (s, 1H Ar).

[0788] 5-{4-[3-(benzyloxy)prop-1-ynyl]phenyl}-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIbn.

[0789] Stir for 12 hours under an inert atmosphere at 50° C., a mixture of 100 mg (0.27 mmol) of 5-(4-bromophenyl)-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one (IIbl), 194 mg (1.3 mmol) of [(prop-2-ynyloxy)methyl]benzene, 9.0 mg of CuI, 5.2 mg of PdCl₂, 18.0 mg of PPh₃, 0.5 ml of TEA, 2 ml of CH₃CN. Evaporate to dryness and purify by silica chromatography (AcOEt 1/hexane 1). Recrystallize in EtO₂/pentane. Yield: 37%. M: 64-66° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 1.12 (s, 3H, CH₃), 3.72-3.83 (m, 4H, 1H CH₂+OCH₃), 4.00 (AB system, ? d=0.63, J_(AB)=13.5, 2H, —NCH₂), 4.03 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.43 (s, 2H, OCH₂), 4.69 (m, 2H, ═C—CH₂), 4.77 (m, 1H, OCH₂), 6.65 (s, 1H Ar), 6.86 (s, 1H Ar), 7.27-7.63 (m, 9H Ar).

[0790] tert-butyl 3-[4-(1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzo diazepin-5-yl)phenyl]prop-2-ynylcarbamate, IIbo.

[0791] By replacing [(prop-2-ynyloxy)methyl]benzene in example IIbn by tert-butyl-prop-2-ynylcarbamate and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 47%. M: 95-97° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 1.10 (s, 3H, CH₃), 1.47 (m, 9H, CH₃), 3.72-3.78 (m, 4H, 1H CH₂+OCH₃), 3.96 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.7 (AB system, ? d=0.64, J_(AB)=13.5, 2H, —NCH₂), 4.16 (m, 2H, ═C—CH₂), 4.81 (m, 1H, OCH₂), 4.88 (s, 1H, —NH), 6.62 (s, 1H Ar), 6.84 (s, 1H Ar), 7.42-7.59 (m, 4H Ar).

[0792] 5-(1,1′-biphenyl-4-yl)-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIbp.

[0793] Heat at 90° C. for 12 hours under an inert atmosphere a mixture of 100 mg (0.27 mmol) of 5-(4-bromophenyl)-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one (IIbl), 35 mg (0.30 mmol) of benzene boronic acid, 215 μl of 2M Na₂CO₃, 25 mg (0.020 mmol) of tetrakis(triphenylphosphine) Pd (O) and 250 μl of EtOH in 5 ml of degassed toluene. Allow to cool to room temperature. Evaporate to dryness. Purify by chromatography (AcOEt). Recrystallize in Et₂O. One obtains 62 mg of the abovenamed product in the form of colorless crystals. Yield: 52%. M: 149-150° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 1.13 (s, 3H, CH₃), 3.78 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.95 (AB system, ?d=0.57, J_(AB)=13.7, 2H, —NCH₂), 3.98 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.29 (AB system, ? d=0.99 J_(AB)=10.0, 2H, CH₂), 6.75 (s, 1H Ar), 6.86 (s, 1H Ar), 7.37-7.75 (m, 9H Ar).

[0794] 3-(4-chlorobenzyl)-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIbq.

[0795] By replacing 2-nitrobenzyl bromide in example IIbh by 4-chlorobenzyl bromide and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 22%. M: 78-81° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 1.07 (s, 3H, CH₃), 3.54 (s, 1H, CH), 3.56 (s, 2H, CH₂), 3.72 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.95 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.99 (AB system, ? d=0.75, J_(AB)=13.7, 2H, —NCH₂), 6.64 (s, 1H Ar), 6.81 (s, 1H Ar), 7.23-7.32 (m, 4H Ar), 7.39-7.45 (m, 3H Ar), 7.55-7.58 (m, 2H Ar).

[0796] 1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-[4-(phenylethynyl)phenyl]-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIbr.

[0797] By replacing [(prop-2-ynyloxy)methyl]benzene in example IIbn by phenylacetylene and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 80%. M: 166-168° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 1.16 (s, 3H, CH₃), 3.79 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.01 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.02 (AB system, ? d=0.65, J_(AB)=13.9, 2H, —NCH₂), 4.32 (AB system, ?d=0.98, J_(AB)=10.5, 2H, CH₂), 6.70 (s, 1H Ar), 6.88 (s, 1H Ar), 7.37-7.70 (m, 9H Ar).

[0798] 3-alyl-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIbs.

[0799] By replacing 2-nitrobenzyl bromide in example IIbh by allyl bromide and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 46%. M: 176-179° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 1.11 (s, 3H, CH₃), 3.02-3.09 (m, 2H═CH₂), 3.60-3.73 (m, 2H, CH+1H-NCH₂), 3.79 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.01 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.32-4.50 (m, 1H, —NCH₂), 5.08-5.25 (m, 2H, ═C—CH₂), 5.94-6.14 (m, 1H, ═CH), 6.73 (s, 1H Ar), 6.87 (s, 1H Ar), 7.42-7.49 (m, 3H Ar), 7.64-7.69 (m, 2H Ar).

[0800] 1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-3-prop-2-ynyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIbt.

[0801] By replacing 2-nitrobenzyl bromide in example IIbh by propargyl bromide and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 22%. M: 161-163° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 1.07 (s, 3H, CH₃), 3.11-3.18 (m, 2H, —CH₂C═), 3.59-3.86 (m, 6H, OCH₃+=CH+1H NCH₂+CH), 3.97 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.35-4.42 (m, 1H, NCH₂), 6.71 (s, 1H Ar), 6.85 (s, 1H Ar), 7.39-7.42 (m, 3H Ar), 7.62-7.66 (m, 2H Ar).

[0802] 1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-[4-(2-phenylethyl)phenyl]-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIbu.

[0803] Leave the following under hydrogen pressure (Patm) for 48 hours: 80 mg of 5-(1,1′-biphenyl-4-yl)-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one (IIbp), 16 mg of 10% palladium on charcoal (20% by weight of product to reduce), in 30 ml of methanol and 1 ml of CH₂Cl₂. Filter on celite, rinse several times with methanol. Evaporate to dryness. Purify by silica chromatography (AcOEt 1/hexane 1). Recrystallize in ether. One obtains 28 mg of the abovenamed product in the form of a white powder. Yield: 35%. M: 148-150° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 1.27 (t, 3H, —CH₃), 3.00 (s, 4H, 2×—CH₂). 3,37-3,40 (m, 2H, CH₂), 3.45-3.65 (m, 4H, —OCH₃+1H NCH₂), 3.92 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.21-4.48 (m, 1H, NCH₂), 6.22 (d, 1H Ar), 6.77 (d, 1H Ar), 7.19-7.39 (m, 9H Ar).

[0804] ethyl (1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-2-oxo-5-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzo diazepin-3-yl)acetate, IIbv.

[0805] By replacing 2-nitrobenzyl bromide in example IIbh by ethyl acetate bromide and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 11%. M: 116-118° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 1.10 (s, 3H, CH₃), 1.32 (s, 3H, CH₃), 3.13-3.25 (m, 1H, —OCH₂), 3.43-3.56 (m, 1H, —OCH₂), 3.63-3.78 (m, 4H, OCH₃+1H NCH₂), 4.00 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.16-4.44 (m, 4H, CH+CH₂+1H NCH₂), 6.71 (s, 1H Ar), 6.90 (s, 1H Ar), 7.30-7.65 (m, 5H Ar).

[0806] 1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-[3-(phenylethynyl)phenyl]-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIbw.

[0807] By replacing 5-(4-bromophenyl)-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one (IIbl) in example IIbn by 5-(3-bromophenyl)-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one (IIbm), and [(prop-2-ynyloxy)methyl]benzene by phenylacetylene, and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 33%. M: 100-102° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 1.13 (s, 3H, CH₃), 3.51-3.82 (m, 5H, 1H NCH₂+1H CH₂+OCH₃), 3.97 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.24-4.34 (m, 1H, NCH₂), 4.74-4.80 (m, 1H, CH₂), 6.66 (s, 1H Ar), 6.84 (s, 1H Ar), 7.26-7.83 (m, 9H Ar).

[0808] 3-(3,5-dibromobenzyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-ethyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIbx.

[0809] By replacing 2-nitrobenzyl bromide in example IIbh by 3,5-dibromobenzyl bromide and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 30%. M: 178-179° C. ¹H-NMR (DMSO, 300 MHz): d 0.85-0.89 (m, 3H, CH₃), 3.28-3.36 (m, 2H, CHCH₂), 3.59 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.69-3.75 (m, 2H, NCH+CHCH₂), 4.20-4.27 (m, 1H, NCH), 6.60 (s, 1H Ar), 7.13 (s, 1H Ar), 7.43-7.72 (m, 8H Ar). Mass: (M+H)⁺=573.05.

[0810] 7,8-dimethoxy-3-(diphenylhydroxymethyl)-1-ethyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIby.

[0811] By replacing 2-nitrobenzyl bromide in example IIbh by benzophenone and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 36%. M: 228-230° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 0.98-1.03 (m, 3H, CH₃), 3.74 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.00 (AB system, ?d=0.71, J_(AB)=13.7, 2H, NCH₂), 4.03 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.57 (s, 1H, CHCOH), 6.41 (s, 1H, CHCOH), 6.66 (s, 1H Ar), 6.94 (s, 1H Ar), 7.27-7.51 (m, 15H Ar). Mass: (M+H)⁺=507.3.

[0812] 7,8-dimethoxy-1-ethyl-3-(E-3-phenylpropen-2yl)-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIbz.

[0813] By replacing 2-nitrobenzyl bromide in example IIbh by 3-bromo-1-phenylprop-1-ene and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 37%. M: 162-164° C. ¹H-NMR (DMSO, 300 MHz): d 0.86-0.91 (m, 3H, CH₃), 2.92-3.01 (m, 2H, CH₂CH═), 3.62 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.88 (s, 3H, OCH₃) 3.98 (AB system, ? d=0.55, J_(AB)=13.6, 2H, NCH₂), 6.32-6.40 (m, 1H, CH₂CH═), 6.50-6.56 (m, 1H, PhCH═), 6.66 (s, 1H Ar), 7.15 (s, 1H Ar), 7.16-7.60 (m, 10H Ar). Mass: (M+H)⁺=441.24.

[0814] 7,8-dimethoxy-1-ethyl-3-(2-aminobenzyl)-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIca.

[0815] Stir a mixture of 80 mg (0.17 mmol) of 7,8-dimethoxy-1-ethyl-3-(2-nitrobenzyl)-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one IIbh, 10 mg of Pd/C 10% by weight in 15 ml of MeOH under 65 psi of H₂ at room temperature for 2 hours. Filter the suspension on celite, rinse three times with 10 ml of MeOH. Evaporate to dryness and purify by silica chromatography (AcOEt 1/hexane 4, 1/2). Recrystallize in EtOH. Yield: 70%. M: degradation at 280° C. ¹H-NMR (DMSO, 300 MHz): d 0.86-0.90 (m, 3H, CH₃), 3.21-3.31 (m, 2H, CHCH₂), 3.59 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.69-3.76(m, 2H, NCH+CHCH₂), 3.88 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.22-4.30 (m, 1H, NCH), 6.46-6.51 (m, 1H Ar), 6.59-6.61 (m, 2H Ar), 6.85-6.88 (m, 1H Ar), 7.01-7.03 (m, 1H Ar), 7.41-7.53 (m, 5H Ar). Mass: (M+H)⁺=430.22.

[0816] (1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-2-oxo-5-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-3-yl)acetonitrile, IIcb.

[0817] By replacing 2-nitrobenzyl bromide in example IIbh by acetonitrile chloride and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained but the reaction is very slow. Yield: 3%. M: 97-100° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 1.13 (s, 3H, CH₃), 3.12-3.46 (m, 2H, —CH₂—CN), 3.80 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.02 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.05 (AB system, ? d=0.68, J_(AB)=13.9, 2H, —NCH₂), 6.75 (s, 1H Ar), 6.88 (s, 1H Ar), 7.45-7.50 (m, 3H Ar), 7.68-7.72 (m, 3H Ar).

[0818] 3-(2-bromobenzyl)-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, Icec.

[0819] By replacing 2-nitrobenzyl bromide in example IIbh by 2-bromobenzyle bromide and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 27%. M: 102-104° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 1.06 (s, 3H, CH₃), 3.52-3.82 (m, 6H, OCH₃+1H NCH₂+CH+1H-CH₂Ph), 3.92-4.05 (m, 4H, +1H-CH₂Ph+OCH₃), 4.35-4.47 (m, 1H NCH₂), 6.63 (s, 1H Ar), 6.83 (s, 1H Ar), 7.05-7.11 (m, 1H Ar), 7.30-7.50 (m, 8H Ar).

[0820] 3-(4-bromobenzyl)-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIcd.

[0821] By replacing 2-nitrobenzyl bromide in example IIbh by 4-bromobenzyl bromide and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 61%. M: 97-99° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 1.05 (s, 3H, CH₃), 3.50-3.54 (m, 2H, CH+1H —CH₂Ph), 3.56-3.77 (m, 5H, OCH₃+1H NCH₂+1H-CH₂Ph), 3.93 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.28-4.45 (m, 1H NCH₂), 6.62 (s, 1H Ar), 6.80 (s, 1H Ar), 7.12-7.25 (m, 2H Ar), 7.35-7.37 (m, 5H Ar), 7.53-7.58 (m, 2H Ar).

[0822] 3-(2-cyanobenzyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-ethyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIce.

[0823] By replacing 2-nitrobenzyl bromide in example IIbh by 2-cyanobenzyl bromide and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 45%. M: 154-156° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 1.05-1.10 (m, 3H, CH₃), 3.59-3.97 (m, 10H, CHCH₂+20CH₃+1HNCH₂), 4.34-4.41 (m, 1H, 1HNCH₂), 6.61 (s, 1H Ar), 6.83 (s, 1H Ar), 7.29-7.77 (m, 9H Ar). Mass: (M+H)⁺=440.23.

[0824] N-[2-(7,8-dimethoxy-2-oxo-5-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-3-yl)benzyl]acetamide, IIcf.

[0825] To a solution of 40 mg (0.09 mmol) of 7,8-dimethoxy-1-ethyl-3-(2-aminobenzyl)-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one IIca, add 18.4 mg (0.23 mmol) of pyridine in 4 ml of CH₂Cl₂, 11.5 mg (0.11 mmol) of acetic anhydride dropwise. Stir for 24 hours. Evaporate to dryness and purify by silica chromatography (AcOEt then AcOEt 5/CH₂Cl₂ 4/EtOH 1). Yield: 70%. M: 144-145° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 0.89-0.96 (m, 3H, CH₃), 2.01 (s, 1H, COCH₃), 3.36-3.45 (m, 2H, CHCH₂), 3.61 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.73-3.84 (m, 2H, CHCH₂+1HNCH₂), 3.91 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 6.60 (s, 1H Ar), 7.07-7.61 (m, 10H Ar). Mass: (M+H)⁺=472.23.

[0826] 3-(2-aminomethylbenzyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-ethyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIcg.

[0827] Stir a mixture of 100 mg (0.23 mmol) of 3-(2-cyanobenzyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-ethyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one IIce, 10 mg of Raney nickel in 5 ml of MeOH under an H₂ atmosphere at room temperature and pressure for 12 hours. Filter the suspension on celite, rinse three times with 10 ml of MeOH. Evaporate to dryness and purify by silica chromatography (AcOEt 5/CH₂Cl₂ 4/EtOH 1, CH₂Cl₂ 4/MeOH 1). Recrystallize in EtOH. Yield: 70%. M: 280° C. with degradation. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 0.98-1.02 (m, 3H, CH₃), 3.33-3.37 (m, 1H, 1H CHCH₂), 3.54-3.59 (m, 5H, OCH₃+1H NCH₂CH₃+1H CHCH₂), 3.79-3.84 m, 1H, CHCH₂), 3.89 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.25-4.32 (m, 3H, CH₂NH₂+1H NCH₂CH₃), 6.40 (s, 1H Ar), 6.78 (s, 1H Ar), 7.02-7.63 (m, 10H Ar). Mass: (M+H)⁺=444.22

[0828] 3-[(3-bromophenyl)(hydroxy)methyl]-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIch.

[0829] By replacing 2-nitrobenzyl bromide in example IIbh by 3-bromobenzaldehyde bromide and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 41%. M: 85-86° C. ¹H-NMR (DMSO, 200 MHz): d 0.90 (s, 3H, CH₃), 3.34-3.65 (d, 1H, CH), 3.60 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.93 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.03 (AB system, ? d=0.58, J_(AB)=14.4, 2H, —NCH₂), 5.54 (dd, 1H, —CH-Ph), 5.73 (d, 1H, —OH), 6.57 (s, 1H Ar), 7.22 (s, 1H Ar), 7.28-7.49 (m, 8H Ar), 7.66 (s, 1H Ar).

[0830] [(7,8-dimethoxy-1-ethyl-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-3-yl)benz-2-yl]carboxamide, IIci.

[0831] To a solution of 100 mg (0.23 mmol) of 3-(2-cyanobenzyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-ethyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one IIce in 2 ml of EtOH, add 80 μl of 10% (m/m) H₂O_(2aq) and dropwise 90 νl of 0.5 M NaOHaq. Add 50 ml of H₂O and extract three times with ml of AcOEt; dry on MgSO₄, evaporate the AcOEt and purify by silica chromatography (AcOEt 1/hexane 1 then AcOEt). Recrystallize in AcOEt. Yield: 65%. M: 193-195° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 1.10-1.15 (m, 3H, CH₃), 3.25-3.31 (m, 1H, 1H CHCH₂), 3.66-3.73 (m, 4H, OCH₃+1H NCH₂CH₃), 3.95-4.00 (s, 4H, OCH₃+1H CHCH₂), 4.19-4.28 (m, 1H, CHCH₂), 4.38-4.45 (m, 1H, 1H NCH₂CH₃), 4.74 (broad s, 2H, CONH₂), 6.54 (s, 1H Ar), 6.88 (s, 1H Ar), 7.09-7.85 (m, 10H Ar). Mass: (M+H)⁺=458.23.

[0832] 3-(3-bromobenzyl)-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIcj.

[0833] By replacing 2-nitrobenzyl bromide in example IIbh by 3-bromobenzyl bromide and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 56%. M: 140-142° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 1.07 (s, 3H, CH₃), 3.52-3.77 (m, 7H, CH+—CH₂Ph+OCH₃+1H NCH₂), 3.96 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.32-4.43 (m, 1H NCH₂), 6.63 (s, 1H Ar), 6.82 (s, 1H Ar), 7.15-7.19 (m, 1H Ar), 7.26-7.45 (m, 5H Ar), 7.55-7.60 (m, 3H Ar).

[0834] 3-(1,1′-biphenyl-4-ylmethyl)-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIck.

[0835] By replacing 5-(4-bromophenyl)-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one (IIbl) in example IIbp by 3-(4-bromobenzyl)-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one (IIcd) and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 48%. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 1.08 (s, 3H, CH₃), 3.61-3.87 (m, 7H, OCH₃+CH+1H NCH₂+—CH₂Ph), 4.01 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.38-4.45 (m, 1H NCH₂), 6.66 (s, 1H Ar), 6.83 (s, 1H Ar), 7.33-7.63 (m, 14H Ar).

[0836] 3-(1-benzyl-4-hydroxypiperidin-4-yl)-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIcl.

[0837] By replacing 2-nitrobenzyl bromide in example IIbh by 1-benzyl-piperidin-4-one and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 61%. M: 197-199° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 1.07 (s, 3H, CH₃), 1.65-1.92 (m, 4H, 2×CH₂), 2.28-2.32 (m, 1H, CH), 2.54-2.68 (m, 4H, 2×CH₂), 3.35 (s, 1H CH₂-Ph), 3.57-3.72 (m, 2H, 1H CH₂-Ph+1H-NCH₂), 3.77 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.99 (s, 3H, +OCH₃), 4.31-4.38 (m, 1H-NCH₂), 4.53 (s, 1H, —OH), 6.72 (s, 1H Ar), 7.86 (s, 1H Ar), 7.30-7.46 (m, 8H Ar), 7.66-7.68 (s, 1H Ar).

[0838] N-[2-(7,8-dimethoxy-2-oxo-5-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-3-yl)benzyl]methylacetamide, Icm.

[0839] By replacing 7,8-dimethoxy-1-ethyl-3-(2-aminobenzyl)-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one (IIca) in example IIcf by 7,8-dimethoxy-1-ethyl-3-(2-aminomethylbenzyl)-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one (IIcg) and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 55%. M: 122-124° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 1.07-1.14 (m, 3H, CH₃), 1.49 (s, 1H, COCH₃), 3.41-3.80 (m, 6H, CHCH₂+1HNCH₂+OCH₃), 3.89-3.98 (m, 4H, CHCH₂+OCH₃), 4.34-4.45 (m, 1HNCH₂), 6.60 (s, 1H Ar), 4.55-4.57 (m, 2H, CH₂NHAc), 6.52 (s, 6.85 (s, 1H Ar), 7.18-8.45 (m, 9H Ar), 8.45 (m, 1H, NHAc).

[0840] 3-(4-chlorobenzyl)-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIcn.

[0841] By replacing 2-nitrobenzyl bromide in example IIbh by 4-chlorobenzyl bromide and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 52%. M: 109-111° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 1.07 (s, 3H, CH₃), 3.54 (d, 1H —CH₂Ph), 3.72-3.77 (m, 5H,1H —CH₂Ph+CH+OCH₃), 3.95 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.00 (AB system, ? d=0.73, J_(AB)=13.4, 2H, —NCH₂), 6.63 (s, 1H Ar), 6.81 (s, 1H Ar), 7.26-7.42 (m, 7H Ar), 7.55-7.58 (m, 2H Ar).

[0842] 3-(2,4-dichlorobenzyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-ethyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIco.

[0843] By replacing 2-nitrobenzyl bromide in example IIbh by 2,4-dichlorobenzyl bromide and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 20%. M: 92-94° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 1.02-1.09 (m, 3H, CH₃), 3.60-3.72 (m, 6H, +OCH₃, 1HNCH₂), 3.82-3.89 (m, 1H, CHCH₂), 3.96 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.33-4.44 (m, 1H, 1HNCH₂), 6.62 (s, 1H Ar), 6.82 (s, 1H Ar), 7.26-7.59 (m, 9H Ar).

[0844] 3-[(1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-2-oxo-5-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-3-yl)methyl]benzonitrile, IIcp.

[0845] By replacing 2-nitrobenzyl bromide in example IIbh by 3-bromomethyl benzonitrile and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 33%. M: 95-97° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 1.10 (s, 3H, CH₃), 3.63 (d, 1H —CH₂Ph), 3.68-3.85 (m, 5H, 1H —CH₂Ph+CH+OCH₃), 3.99 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.01 (AB system, ? d=0.69, J_(AB)=14.2, 2H, —NCH₂), 6.67 (s, 1H Ar), 6.86 (s, 1H Ar), 7.42-7.70 (m, 9H Ar).

[0846] 3-benzyl-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIcq.

[0847] By replacing 2-nitrobenzyl bromide in example IIbh by benzyl bromide and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 38%. M: 157-159° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 1.10 (s, 3H, CH₃), 3.61-3.86 (m, 7H, —CH₂Ph+1H —NCH₂+CH+OCH₃), 3.99 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.37-4.47 (m, 1H —NCH₂), 6.67 (s, 1H Ar), 6.84 (s, 1H Ar), 7.30-7.44 (m, 8H Ar), 7.60-7.64(m, 2H Ar).

[0848] 1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-3-(2-methoxybenzyl)-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, Icr.

[0849] By replacing 2-nitrobenzyl bromide in example IIbh by 2-methoxybenzyl bromide and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 24%. M: 100-102° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 1.09 (s, 3H, CH₃), 3.50-3.92 (m, 10H, —CH₂Ph+1H —NCH₂+CH+2×OCH₃),3.99 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.39-4.49 (m, 1H —NCH₂), 6.66 (s, 1H Ar), 6.81-6.85 (m, 2H Ar), 6.95-7.02 (m, 1H Ar), 7.19-7.30 (m, 1H Ar), 7.39-7.59 (m, 6H Ar).

[0850] 3-[(1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-2-oxo-5-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-3-yl)methyl]benzamide, IIcs.

[0851] To a solution of 40 mg (0.91 mmol) of 3-[(1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-2-oxo-5-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-3-yl)methyl]benzonitrile (IIcp) in 1 ml of ethanol, add under an inert atmosphere 27 μl (0.27 mmol) of 30% (m/m) H₂O₂ in water, 36 μl (0.018 mmol) of 0.5 M NaOH in water. Stir under reflux for 12 hours. Evaporate to dryness. Take up in a 25 ml of a water-ice mixture. Filter the solid, wash twice with 20 ml of water and once with 5 ml of ether. One obtains 24 mg of the abovenamed product as a white powder. Yield: 59%. M: 111-113° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 1.10 (s, 3H, CH₃), 3.50-3.75 (m, 6H, 1H —CH₂Ph+1H —NCH₂+CH+OCH₃), 3.98-4.11 (m, 4H, 1H —CH₂Ph+OCH₃), 4.38-4.49 (m, 1H —NCH₂), 5.91 (m, 1H exchangeable CO—NH₂), 6.26 (m, 1H exchangeable CO—NH₂), 6.66 (s, 1H Ar), 6.85 (s, 1H Ar), 7.30-7.86 (m, 9H Ar).

[0852] 3-[3-(aminomethyl)benzyl]-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIct.

[0853] Leave under hydrogen pressure (Patm) for 12 hours, 40 mg of 3-[(1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-2-oxo-5-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-3-yl)methyl] benzonitrile (IIcp), 0.4 ml of 30% ammonia, 4 ml of methanol, 1 spatula tip of Raney nickel. Filter on celite, rinse several times with methanol. Evaporate to dryness. Take up in 50 ml of dichloromethane, wash three times with 50 ml of 0.5 M NH₃ and twice with water. Dry the organic phase on Na₂SO₄. Evaporate to dryness. Recrystallize in ether. Filter. One obtains 40 mg of the abovenamed product in the form of a white powder. Yield: 55%. M: 122-125° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 1.10 (s, 3H, CH₃), 1.30 (m, 2H exchangeable —NH₂), 3.50-3.89 (m, 8H, 1H —CH₂Ph+1H —NCH₂+CH+CH₂—NH₂+OCH₃), 3.98-4.11 (m, 4H, 1H —CH₂Ph+OCH₃), 4.37-4.47 (m, 1H —NCH₂), 6.67 (s, 1H Ar), 6.84 (s,1H Ar), 7.20-7.64 (m, 9H Ar).

[0854] 3-(1,1′-biphenyl-3-ylmethyl)—ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIcu.

[0855] By replacing 5-(4-bromophenyl)-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one (IIbl) in example IIbp by 3-(3-bromobenzyl)-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one (IIcj) and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 33% M: 139-141° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 1.12 (s, 3H, CH₃), 3.50-3.89 (m, 7H, OCH₃+CH+1H NCH₂+—CH₂Ph), 3.99 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.38-4.48 (m, 1H NCH₂), 6.67 (s, 1H Ar), 6.85 (s, 1H Ar), 7.43-7.68 (m, 14H Ar).

[0856] 3-benzyl-7,8-diethoxy-1-ethyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIcv.

[0857] By replacing 5-(4-bromophenyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one (XXIIaf) in example IIba by 3-benzyl-7,8-diethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one (XXIIaj), and MeI by ethyl iodide, and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 36%. M: 128-130° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 1.10 (t, 3H, CH₃), 1.40 (t, 3H, CH₃), 1.55 (t, 3H, CH₃), 3.66 (m, 3H, CH₂Ph+CH), 3.94 (q, 2H, —OCH₂), 4.15 (AB system, ? d=0.52, J_(AB)=13.2, 2H, —NCH₂), 4.19 (q, 2H, —OCH₂), 6.67 (s, 1H Ar), 6.85 (s, 1H Ar), 7.33-7.63 (m, 10H Ar).

[0858] 2-(1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-2-oxo-5-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-3-yl)acetamide, IIcw.

[0859] Stir at 0° C. under an inert atmosphere for 48 hours, 70 mg (0.17 mmol) of ethyl (1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-2-oxo-5-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-3-yl)acetate (IIbv) and 1.5 ml of methanol at 35% molar saturation with NH₃. Evaporate to dryness. Purify by silica chromatography (dichloromethane 9/methanol 1). Recrystallize in ether. One obtains 12 mg of the abovenamed product as a white powder. Yield: 17%. M: 105-107° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 1.10 (t, 3H, CH₃), 3.02-3.09 (m, 1H —CH₂), 3.22-3.29 (m, 1H —CH₂), 3.75 (s, 1H, OCH₃), 3.98 (s, 1H, OCH₃), 4.01 (AB system, ? d=0.67, J_(AB)=13.9, 2H, —NCH₂), 4.13 (t, 1H, CH), 5.52 (s, 1H exchangeable NH₂), 6.43 (s, 1H exchangeable NH₂), 6.67 (s, 1H Ar), 6.85 (s, 1H Ar), 7.38-7.47 (m, 3H Ar), 7.59-7.62 (m, 2H Ar).

[0860] 7,8-dimethoxy-1-(2-hydroxyethyl)-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIcx.

[0861] To a solution of 150 mg (0.50 mmol) of 7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one XXIIaa in 5 ml of DMF, add at 0° C. under an inert atmosphere 21 mg (0.52 mmol) of 60% NaH in oil. Stir at room temperature for 1 hour. Add at 0° C., 53 mg (0.60 mmol) of ethylene carbonate. Stir at room temperature overnight. Add 50 ml of H₂O and extract three times with 50 ml of AcOEt; dry on MgSO₄, evaporate the AcOEt and purify by silica chromatography (AcOEt 3/hexane 1, then AcOEt). Recrystallize in CHCl₃/cHexane. Yield: 40%. M: 128-130° C. ¹H-NMR (DMSO, 300 MHz): d 3.36-3.52 (m, 2H, HOCH₂), 3.60 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.70-3.86 (m, 5H, NCH₂+OCH₃), 4.11 (AB system, ? d=0.77, J_(AB)=9.96, 2H, CH₂), 4.77 (m, 1H, OH), 6.60 (s, 1H Ar), 7.39 (s, 1H Ar), 7.42-7.58 (m, 4H Ar). Mass: (M+H)⁺=341.16.

[0862] 3-(2-chlorobenzyl)-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIcy.

[0863] By replacing 2-nitrobenzyl bromide in example IIbh by 2-chlorobenzyl bromide and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 60%. M: 78-81° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 1.09 (s, 3H, CH₃), 3.50-3.96 (m, 6H, 1H —CH₂Ph+1H —NCH₂+CH+OCH₃), 3.90-3.98 (m, 3H, 1H —CH₂Ph+OCH₃), 4.38-4.44 (m, 1H —NCH₂), 6.63 (s, 1H Ar), 6.83 (s, 1H Ar), 7.16-7.65 (m, 9H Ar).

[0864] 1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-3-(2-methylbenzyl)-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIcz.

[0865] By replacing 2-nitrobenzyl bromide in example IIbh by 2-methylbenzyl bromide and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 55%. M: 73-75° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 1.08 (s, 3H, CH₃), 2.40 (s, 3H, CH₃), 3.62-3.73 (m, 6H, 1H —CH₂Ph+1H —NCH₂+CH+OCH₃), 3.83-3.86 (m, 1H —CH₂Ph), 3.97 (s, 3H, CH₃), 4.38-4.45 (m, 1H —NCH₂), 6.64 (s, 1H Ar), 6.84 (s, 1H Ar), 7.14 (m, 3H Ar), 7.34-7.44 (m, 4H Ar),7.56-7.58 (m, 2H Ar).

[0866] 8-ethoxy-7-methoxy-1-methyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIda.

[0867] By replacing in the example 7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one (XXIIaa) by 8-ethoxy-7-methoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one (XXIIam), and ethylene carbonate by iodomethane, and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 69%. M: 138-140° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 1.54 (t, 3H, CH₃), 3.38 (s, 3H, NCH₃), 3.74 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.18 (q, 2H, —OCH₂), 4.29 (AB system, ? d=0.98, J_(AB)=10.5, 2H, —CH₂), 6.70 (s, 1H Ar), 6.77 (s, 1H Ar), 7.39-7.43 (m, 3H Ar), 7.63-7.68 (m, 3H Ar).

[0868] 1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-3-[3-(trifluoromethyl)benzyl]-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, Idb.

[0869] By replacing 2-nitrobenzyl bromide in example IIbh by 3-trifluoromethylbenzyl bromide and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 49%. M: 151-153° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 1.09 (s, 3H, CH₃), 3.55-3.77 (m, 7H, —CH₂Ph+1H —NCH₂+CH+OCH₃), 3.96 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.32-4.44 (m, 1H —NCH₂), 6.63 (s, 1H Ar), 6.83 (s, 1H Ar), 7.37-7.48 (m, 5H Ar),7.55-7.58 (m, 3H Ar), 7.70 (s, 1H Ar).

[0870] 1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-3-(3-methoxybenzyl)-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIdc.

[0871] By replacing 2-nitrobenzyl bromide in example IIbh by 3-methoxybenzyl bromide and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 45%. M: 155-157° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 1.08 (s, 3H, CH₃), 3.56-3.60 (m, 2H, 1H —CH₂Ph+CH), 3.72 (s, 3H, NCH₃), 3.77-3.80 (m, 1H CH₂Ph), 3.95 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.00 (AB system, ? d=0.75, J_(AB)=14.0, 2H, —NCH₂), 6.64 (s, 1H Ar), 6.74-6.77 (m, 1H Ar), 6.82 (s, 1H Ar), 6.95-6.98 (m, 2H Ar), 7.20 (t, 1H Ar), 7.37-7.45 (m, 3H Ar), 7.59-7.62 (m, 2H Ar).

[0872] 1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-3-(4-methylbenzyl)-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIdd.

[0873] By replacing 2-nitrobenzyl bromide in example IIbh by 4-methylbenzyl bromide and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 24%. M: 107-108° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 1.07 (s, 3H, CH₃), 2.32 (s, 3H, CH₃), 3.54-3.58 (m, 2H, 1H —CH₂Ph+CH), 3.72 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.75-3.80 (m, 1H CH₂Ph), 3.95 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.96 (AB system, ? d=0.68, J_(AB)=14.3, 2H, —NCH₂), 6.64 (s, 11H Ar), 6.81 (s, 1H Ar), 7.20 (AB system, ? d=0.17, J_(AB)=7.8, 2H, —NCH₂), 7.37-7.45 (m, 3H Ar), 7.59-7.62 (m, 2H Ar).

[0874] 3-[1,2-bis(4-bromophenyl)ethyl]-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIde.

[0875] This product is obtained at the same time as 3-(4-bromobenzyl)-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one (IIcd). Isolate by chromatography. Yield: 20%. M: 195-198° C. ¹H-NMR (DMSO, 300 MHz): d 0.89 (s, 3H, CH₃), 2.82 (m, 1H, CH-Ph), 3.16 (m, 1H, CH), 3.61 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.91 (AB system, ?d=0.15, J_(AB)=10.2, 2H, —CH₂Ph), 3.93 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.96 (AB system, ? d=0.68, J_(AB)=13.5, 2H, —NCH₂), 6.61 (s, 1 H Ar), 7.05 (AB system, ? d=0.16, J_(AB)=7.9, 4H Ar), 7.23-7.39 (m, 8H Ar), 7.57 (s, 3H Ar).

[0876] 3-[(8-ethoxy-7-methoxy-1-methyl-2-oxo-5-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-3-yl)methyl]benzonitrile, IIdf.

[0877] By replacing 1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one (IIbd) in example IIbh by 8-ethoxy-7-methoxy-1-methyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one (IIIda), and 2-nitrobenzyl bromide by 3-bromomethyl-benzonitrile, and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 35%. M: 148-150° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 1.53 (s, 3H, CH₃), 3.40 (s, 3H, NCH₃), 3.58-3.62 (m, 2H, 1H —CH₂Ph+CH), 3.72 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.75-3.80 (m, 1H CH₂Ph), 4.17 (q, 2H, CH₂), 6.66 (s, 1H Ar), 6.76 (s, 1H Ar), 7.35-7.67 (m, 9H Ar).

[0878] 2-[(8-ethoxy-7-methoxy-1-methyl-2-oxo-5-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-3-yl)methyl]benzonitrile, IIdg.

[0879] By replacing 1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one (IIbd) in example IIbh by 8-ethoxy-7-methoxy-1-methyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one (IIda), and 2-nitrobenzyl bromide by 2-bromomethyl-benzonitrile, and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 58%. M: 238-240° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 200 MHz): d 1.53 (s, 3H, CH₃), 3.40 (s, 3H, NCH₃), 3.71 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 3.78-3.90 (m, 3H, —CH₂Ph+CH), 4.17 (q, 2H, CH₂), 6.64 (s, 1H Ar), 6.76 (s, 1H Ar), 7.31-7.78 (m, 9H Ar).

[0880] 3-[(8-ethoxy-7-methoxy-1-methyl-2-oxo-5-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-3-yl)methyl]benzamide, IIdh.

[0881] By replacing 3-[(1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-2-oxo-5-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-3-yl)methyl]benzonitrile (IIcp) in example IIcs by 3-[(8-ethoxy-7-methoxy-1-methyl-2-oxo-5-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-3-yl)methyl]benzonitrile (IIdf) and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 86%. M: 199-201° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 1.52 (s, 3H, CH₃), 3.39 (s, 3H, NCH₃), 3.66-3.79 (m, 3H, —CH₂Ph+CH+OCH₃), 4.17 (q, 2H, CH₂), 5.84 (m, 1H exchangeable —NH₂), 6.24 (m, 1H exchangeable —NH₂), 6.64 (s, 1H Ar), 6.74 (s, 1H Ar), 7.26-7.83 (m, 9H Ar).

[0882] 3-(2,5-dichlorobenzyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-ethyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIdi.

[0883] By replacing 2-nitrobenzyl bromide in example IIbh by 2,5-dichlorobenzyl bromide and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 22%. M: 94-95° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 1.03-1.10 (m, 3H, CH₃), 3.64-3.82 (m, 7H, CHCH₂, OCH₃, 1HNCH₂), 3.96 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.35-4.45 (m, 1H, 1HNCH₂), 6.62 (s, 1H Ar), 6.83 (s, 1H Ar), 7.16-7.64 (m, 9H Ar).

[0884] (S)-3-benzyl-7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIdj.

[0885] By replacing 5-(4-bromophenyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one (XXIIaf) in example IIba by (S) 3-benzyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one (XXIIau) and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 55%. M: 104-106° C. ¹H-NMR (DMSO, 200 MHz): d 3.45 (s, 3H, NCH₃), 3.61-3.65 (m, 2H, CH₂), 3.75-3.84 (m, 4H, 1CH+OCH₃), 4.00 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 6.70 (s, 1H Ar), 6.79 (s, 1H Ar), 7.23-7.62 (m, 10H Ar). Mass: (M+H)⁺=401.15

[0886] 3,5-diphenyl-8-ethoxy-1-ethyl-7-methoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIdk.

[0887] By replacing 5-(4-bromophenyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one (XXIIaf) in example IIba by 3,5-diphenyl-8-ethoxy-7-methoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one (XXIIba), and methyl iodide by ethyl iodide, and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 65%. M: 178-180° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 1.06-1.11 (m, 3H, NCH₂CH₃), 1.55-1.59 (m, 3H, OCH₂CH₃), 3.77 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.19-4.26 (m, 2H, OCH₂), 4.01 (AB system, ? d —0.70, J_(AB)=13.7, 2H, NCH₂), 6.77 (s, 1H Ar), 6.92 (s, 1H Ar), 7.35-7.74 (m, 10H Ar).

[0888] 7-methoxy-1-methyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIdl.

[0889] By replacing 7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one (XXIIaa) in the example by 7-methoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one (XXIIao), and ethylene-carbonate by iodomethane, and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 55%. M: 10-112° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 3.38 (s, 3H, NCH₃), 3.75 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.30 (AB system, ? d=1.00, J_(AB)=10.6, 2H, —CH₂), 6.77-6.78 (m, 1H Ar), 7.09-7.14 (m, 1H Ar), 7.31 (s, 1H Ar), 7.38-7.46 (m, 3H Ar), 7.44-7.67 (m, 2H Ar).

[0890] 8-methoxy-1-methyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, IIdm.

[0891] By replacing 7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one (XXIIaa) in the example by 7-methoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one (XXIIan), and ethylene carbonate by iodomethane, and proceeding in the same manner, the abovenamed product is obtained. Yield: 76%. M: 114-116° C. ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃, 300 MHz): d 3.41 (s, 3H, NCH₃), 3.90 (s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.29 (AB system, ? d=0.99, J_(AB)=10.6, 2H, —CH₂), 6.71-6.75 (m, 1H Ar), 6.81-6.82 (m, 1H Ar), 7.22-7.25 (m, 1H Ar), 7.36-7.42 (m, 3H Ar), 7.50-7.62 (m, 2H Ar).

EXAMPLE 5 Pharmacological Activity: Inhibition of Phosphodiesterases

[0892] 5.1. Isolation of phosphodiesterases from smooth muscle

[0893] A 3 g segment of bovine aortic media cut into pieces with scissors was homogenized with an ultra-turrax then a potter glass/glass homogenizer in 7 volumes by weight of buffer A containing a protease inhibitor cocktail (20 mM Tris-HCl, 0.25 M saccharose, 2 mM magnesium acetate, 1 mM dithiothreitol, 5 mM EGTA, 2000 U/ml aprotinin, 10 mg/l leupeptin and 10 mg/l soya trypsic inhibitor). The homogenizate was centrifuged at 105,000 g for 1 hour. The supernatant was loaded on a DEAE-Sephacel column (15×1.6 cm) pre-equilibrated with buffer B (buffer A without the saccharose, EGTA and protease inhibitors). The column was washed until there was no detectable absorption at 280 nm, then eluted with a linear gradient of NaCl (0-0.5 M) in buffer B. 3-ml fractions were collected and enzyme activity was determined under the conditions described hereinafter to localize the different enzymes PDE1, PDE3, PDE4 and PDE5, which were aliquoted and frozen at −80° C. (Lugnier et al., Biochem. Phamacol., 35 (1986) 1746-1751). PDE2 was prepared from bovine endothelial cells by the same methods (Lugnier and Schini, Biochem. Pharmacol. 1990, 39; 75-84).

[0894] 5.2. Protocol for Measuring Phosphodiesterase Activity

[0895] Cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase activity was determined by a radioenzymatic method using tritium-labelled cyclic GMP or AMP (1 μM) as substrate (Lugnier et al., 1986). ³H-labelled adenosine or guanosine monophosphate formed by hydrolysis of the radiolabelled cyclic nucleotide was then converted to ³H-labelled adenosine or guanosine in a second reaction with one nucleotidase in excess. The nucleoside formed was separated from the nucleotides by anion exchange chromatography. Nucleoside radioactivity was determined by liquid scintillation counting. Enzymatic incubations were carried out under conditions allowing no more than 15% hydrolysis of the substrate; each point was performed in duplicate.

[0896] 5.2.1. Determination of inhibition of PDE4

[0897] The concentration of substance which inhibits enzymatic activity by 50% (IC₅₀) at 1 μM cyclic AMP was calculated by nonlinear regression (Prism, GraphPad).

[0898] 5.2.2. Selectivity

[0899] The activity of the compounds was evaluated on other phosphodiesterase isoforms, particularly basal state or calmodulin-activated PDE1 from vascular smooth muscle, basal state or cyclic GMP-activated PDE2 from vascular endothelial cells, PDE3 and PDE5 from vascular smooth muscle.

[0900] The results obtained are presented in Table 4 hereinafter and are expressed as the percentage inhibition of enzymatic activity produced by 10 μmol of the tested compound. TABLE 1 Compounds represented by formula (III) PDE4 IC₅₀ (μM) or percentage Compound inhibition at 10 μM IIIaa 9.3 IIIab 0.30 IIIac 33% IIIad 3.9%  IIIae 19% IIIaf 30% IIIag 36% IIIah 3.1 IIIai 1.8 IIIaj 2.7 IIIak 1.8 IIIal 2.4 IIIam 1.7 IIIan 1.8 IIIao 1.7 IIIap 1.9 IIIaq 1.9 IIIar 2.9 IIIas 2.9 IIIat 2.3 IIIau 3.8 IIIav 0.9 IIIaw 16 IIIax 7.8 IIIba 6.9 IIIbb 0.087 IIIzc 0.72

[0901] TABLE 2 Compounds represented by formula (XXII) PDE4 IC₅₀ (μM) or percentage Compound inhibition at 10 μM XXIIaa 25.8% XXIIab   10% XXIIac   35% XXIIad 14.9% XXIIae   21% XXIIaf 15 XXIIag 0.95 XXIIah 21.2% XXIIai 1.7 XXIIaj 4.4 XXIIak 13 XXIIal 23.9% XXIIam 0.7 XXIIan 12.1% XXIIao 11.5% XXIIap 36.10%  XXIIaq 26.2% XXIIar 49.3% XXIIas 41.3% XXIIat   29% XXIIau 42.6% XXIIav   23% XXIIaw   4% XXIIax   6% XXIIay 19.6% XXIIaz 9.5 XXIIba 6.7 XXIIbb 15 XXIIbc   10%

[0902] TABLE 3 Compounds represented by formula (II) PDE4 IC₅₀ (μM) or percentage Compound inhibition at 10 μM IIab   38% IIac 2.3 IIad   23% IIae  3.4% IIaf 11.7% IIag 4.8 IIah   36% IIai   39% IIaj  7.9% IIak 16 IIal 10 IIam   20% IIan 3.6 IIao 1.6 IIap   18% IIaq 7.9 IIar   0% IIas 8.4 IIat  3.9% IIau 18.5% IIav   15% IIaw 10 IIax 8.2 IIay 6.6 IIaz  6.9% IIba 17 IIbb 3.13 IIbc 27.2% IIbd 34.3% IIbe 34.7% IIbf 0.86 IIbg 0.9/1.6 IIbh 2.4 IIbi 23.1% IIbj 6.5 IIbk 14.2% IIbl 15 IIbm 7.3 IIbn 2.95 IIbo 2.92 IIbp 5.74 IIbq 33.8% IIbr 6.6/3.8 IIbs 38.8% IIbt 38.4% IIbu 12.4/18.7 IIbv 44.4% IIbw 46.1% IIbx   18% IIby 8.2 IIbz 42.3% IIca 2.5 IIcb 28.5% IIcc 4.97 IIcd 20.1% IIce 0.88/1.4 IIcf   21% IIcg 6.7 IIch 9.6 IIci 1.45 IIcj 3.76 IIck 32.2% IIcl  4.3% IIcm 1.9 IIcn   45% IIco 34.3% IIcp 9.2 IIcq 7.4 IIcr 2.7 IIcs 1.25 IIct   18% IIcu 4.8 IIcv 3.1 IIcw  9.4% IIcx  9.9% IIcy 2.8 IIcz 4.4 IIda 0.55 and 0.43 IIdb 23 IIdc 5.1 IIdd 31.5% IIde   0% IIdf 1.5 IIdg 1.1 IIdh 0.52 IIdi 8.15 IIdj 48.3% IIdk 1.1 IIdl 34.6% IIdm   16%

[0903] TABLE 4 Selectivity IC₅₀ (μM) or percentage inhibition at 10 μM Compound PDE1 PDE2 PDE3 PDE4 PDE5 IIIab  3.81 16  5.8 0.30  4.3 IIIav 49% 19 92% 0.9 40 IIIbb 14 25%  2.7 0.087  5.7 IIIzc 32% 24% 36% 0.72 38% XXIIag 46% 17% 22% 0.95 35% IIbg 47% 20% 40% 0.9 — XXIIai 55%  6% 55% 1.7 — XXIIam 29% 36% 36% 0.7 35% IIda 26%  7% 47% 0.5 14%

[0904] All the compounds tested showed potent inhibition of PDE4. The preferred compounds according to the invention have an excellent potency and selectivity profile towards phosphodiesterase 4, in so far as these compounds are weaker inhibitors of the other PDEs, particularly PDE3.

EXAMPLE 6 Anti-Inflammatory Properties of the Inventive Compounds

[0905] Compounds according to the invention were assessed for anti-inflammatory properties on mononuclear cells from venous blood of healthy donors (n=4), by a protocol approved by the Alsace No. 1 Ethics Committee. More specifically, the cells were incubated for 24 hours in 24-well plates in the presence of the test compound, after activation by Salmonella Abortis Equi lipopolysaccharide (LPS) (5 pg/ml) (cf. De Groote et al., Cytokine 4, 1992, 239). After incubation, TNFα concentrations were determined in the culture supernatant by an ELISA method (Antibody Solutions, Half Moon Bay, Calif., USA).

[0906] The results obtained revealed that the test compounds produced a marked, dose-related inhibition of TNFα, and only TNFα, production (relative to IL1β, IL6 and IL8 which were not significantly decreased). As an example, compounds IIIab and IIda at a concentration of 1 μM, inhibited TNFα production by 100%, whereas at this same concentration, IL1β, IL6 and IL8 secretion levels were not at all altered.

[0907] Other compounds found to be potent inhibitors of PDE4, such as for example compounds IIdh, XXIIag, also have potent anti-TNFα activity, with IC₅₀ values comprised between 1 and 0.1 μM. Some such compounds, for instance compound XXIIag, are capable of inhibiting the secretion of TNFα, but also of IL1β, and display a pharmacological profile distinct from the selective anti-TNFα compounds. 

1. Compounds represented by general formula (I)

wherein: either X represents an NR₄ group and Y represents a CR₆R₆′ group, R₄, R₆ and R₆′ being defined hereinafter, or X represents a CR₄R₄′ group and Y represents an NR₆ group, R₄, R₄′ and R₆ being defined hereinafter, Z represents an oxygen or sulfur atom. R₁ is a (C₁-C₁₂) alkyl, (C₃-C₆) cycloalkyl, (C₆-C₁₈) aryl, (C₆-C₁₈)aryl(C₁-C₄)alkyl, (C₁-C₁₂)alkyl(C₆-C₁₈)aryl group, a (C₅-C₁₈) heterocycle, aromatic or not, containing 1 to 3 heteroatoms, or an OR₂, SR₂ or NR₂R₃ group in which (i) R₂ and R₃, independently of each other, are selected in the group consisting of a hydrogen atom, a (C₁-C₆) alkyl, (C₃-C₆) cycloalkyl, (C₆-C₁₂) aryl group, and a (C₅-C₁₂) heterocycle, aromatic or not, containing 1 to 3 heteroatoms or, (ii) R₂ and R₃ together form a linear or branched hydrocarbon having from 2 to 6 carbon atoms, possibly containing one or more double bonds and/or possibly interrupted by an oxygen, sulfur or nitrogen atom; R₄ and R₄′, which are the same or different, represent a (C₃-C₆) cycloalkyl, unsubstituted (C₆-C₁₈) aryl, (C₆-C₁₈)aryl(C₁-C₄)alkyl, (C₁-C₁₋₂)alkyl(C₆-C₁₈)aryl group or a (C₅-C₁₈) heterocycle, aromatic or not, containing 1 to 3 heteroatoms, and, when X is the group CR₄R₄′, R₄ and R₄′, which are the same or different, are also selected in the group consisting of the hydrogen atom and a (C₁-C₁₂) alkyl, (C₆-C₁₈) aryl, (C₂-C₆) alkenyl, (C₂-C₆) alkynyl, NO₂, CF₃, CN, NR′R″, SR′, OR′, COOR′, CONR′R″ and NHCOR′R″ group, R′ and R″, independently of each other, being selected in the group consisting of the hydrogen atom, a (C₁-C₆) alkyl, (C₁-C₆) alkoxy, (C₃-C₆) cycloalkyl, (C₆-C₁₂) aryl group, and a (C₅-C₁₂) heterocycle, aromatic or not, containing 1 to 3 heteroatoms; R₆ and R₆′, which are the same or different, are selected in the group consisting of the hydrogen atom, (C₁-C₆) alkyl, (C₆-C₁₈) aryl, (C₆-C₁₈)aryl(C₁-C₄)alkyl, (C₁-C₁₋₂)alkyl(C₆-C₁₈)aryl, preferably a phenyl, benzyl group and a (C₁-C₆)alkylphenyl group; R₇ and R₈, independently of each other, are selected in the group consisting of the hydrogen atom, a (C₁-C₁₂) alkyl group and an OR₂ group, R₂ being defined hereinabove, with the condition that R₇ and R₈ do not both represent a hydrogen atom, or R₇ and R₈ together form a linear or branched hydrocarbon chain having from 2 to 6 carbon atoms, possibly containing one or more double bonds and/or possibly interrupted by an oxygen, sulfur or nitrogen atom; the alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, alkylaryl, aralkyl, cycloalkyl, aryl, phenyl, heterocycle groups and the hydrocarbon chain defined hereinabove possibly being substituted by one or more substituents, which are the same or different, preferably selected in the group consisting of a halogen atom, a (C₁-C₁₂) alkyl, (C₆-C₁₈) aryl, (C₂-C₆) alkenyl, (C₂-C₆) alkynyl, heterocycle, OH, ═O, NO₂, NR′R″, CN, CF₃, COR′, COOR′, (C₁-C₆)alkoxy, (di)(C₁-C₆)alkylamino, NHCOR′ and CONR′R″ group, in which R′ and R″ are defined as hereinabove, and the salts thereof.
 2. Compounds represented by general formula (I) according to claim 1 wherein X is the group CR₄R_(6′) and Y is the group NR₆.
 3. Compounds represented by general formula (I) according to claim 1 wherein X is the group NR₄ and Y is the group CR₆R_(6′).
 4. Compounds represented by general formula (I) according to any one of claims 1 to 3 wherein Z is the oxygen atom.
 5. Compounds represented by general formula (I) according to any one of the previous claims wherein R₇ are R₈, independently of each other, represent an OR₂ group in which R₂ is a (C₁-C₆) alkyl group, preferably an ethyl or methyl group.
 6. Compounds represented by general formula (I) according to any one of claims 1 to 4 wherein R₇ represents a hydrogen atom and R₈ represents a halogen atom or vice versa.
 7. Compounds represented by general formula (I) according to claim 5, wherein R₇ and R₈ each represent an ethoxy or methoxy group.
 8. Compounds represented by general formula (I) according to any one of the previous claims wherein R₆ and R_(6′), which are the same or different, represent the hydrogen atom or a (C₁-C₆) alkyl group.
 9. Compounds represented by general formula (I) according to any one of the previous claims wherein R₄ and R_(4′), which are the same or different, represent a (C₁-C₁₂) alkyl or (C₆-C₁₈)aryl(C₁-C₄)alkyl group, possibly substituted by one or more substituents, which are the same or different, chosen from among a halogen atom and an OH, ═O, NO₂, NH₂, CN, CF₃, COR′, COOR′, (C₁-C₆)alkoxy, (di)(C₁-C₆)alkylamino, NHCOR′ and CONR′R″ group, in which R′ and R″ are defined as in claim
 1. 10. Compounds represented by general formula (I) according to any one of claims 2 and 4 to 7 wherein R₄ and R₄ represent the hydrogen atom.
 11. Compounds represented by general formula (I) according to claim 1, wherein X is the group CR₄R₄′, Y is the group NR₆, Z is the oxygen atom, R₇ and R₈ represent, independently of each other, an OR₂ group in which R₂ is a (C₁-C₆) alkyl group, R₆ represents the hydrogen atom or a (C₁-C₆) alkyl group and R₄ and R₄′ represent the hydrogen atom.
 12. Compounds represented by general formula (I) according to claim 1, wherein X is the group NR₄, Y is the group CR₆R_(6′), Z is the oxygen atom, R₇ and R₈ represent, independently of each other, an OR₂ group in which R₂ is a (C₁-C₆) alkyl group, R₆ and R′₆, which are the same or different, represent the hydrogen atom or a (C₁-C₆) alkyl group and R₄ represents a (C₁-C₁₂) alkyl or (C₆-C₁₈)aryl(C₁-C₄)alkyl group, possibly substituted by one or more substituents, which are the same or different, chosen from among a halogen atom and an OH, ═O, NO₂, NH₂, CN, CF₃, COOR′, (C₁-C₆)alkoxy, (di)(C₁-C₆)alkylamino, NHCOR′ and CONR′R″ group, in which R′ and R″ are defined as in claim
 1. 13. Compounds represented by general formula (I) according to any one of the previous claims wherein R₁ is a (C₆-C₁₈) aryl, (C₆-C₁₈)aryl(C₁-C₄)alkyl, (C₁-C₁₋₂)alkyl(C₆-C₁₈)aryl group or a (C₅-C₁₈) heterocycle, aromatic or not, containing 1 to 3 heteroatoms, said group or heterocycle possibly being substituted.
 14. Compounds according to claim 13, wherein R₁ is a phenyl group, particularly a substituted phenyl, preferably a phenyl group substituted by: (a) one or more halogen atoms, particularly chlorine, bromine or iodine, preferably chlorine, or (b) one or more OR′ groups, particularly methoxy or ethoxy, or (c) a COR′ group, particularly acetyl, or (d) a trifluoromethyl group, or (e) an alkyl or alkynyl group, for example heptinyl, or (f) an aryl group or heterocycle, particularly a phenyl, furyl, pyridyl or thienyl group, said aryl group or heterocycle itself possibly being substituted by one or more groups preferably chosen from among the groups (a)-(e).
 15. Compounds according to claim 13, wherein R₁ is an aromatic heterocycle, particularly naphthyl, thienyl, furyl, indolyl or pyridyl, possibly substituted by one or more groups chosen from among the groups (a)-(f) defined in claim
 13. 16. Compounds according to claim 13, wherein R₁ is a 4-chlorophenyl, 3,4-dichlorophenyl, 2-naphthyl, 2-benzo[b]thienyl, 4-(2-furyl)phenyl, 3-pyridyl or 3-trifluoromethylphenyl group.
 17. Compounds according to claim 1 chosen among the following compounds: 7,8-dimethoxy-1-(2-naphthyl)-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one 1-(4-chlorophenyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one 1-(2-benzo[b]thienyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one 1-[4-(2-furyl)phenyl]-7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one 1-(2-benzo[b]thienyl)-7,8-diethoxy-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one 1-(2-benzo[b]thienyl)-7,8-diethoxy-5-ethyl-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one 1-(4-chlorophenyl)-7,8-diethoxy-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one 5-(4-chlorophenyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 7,8-dimethoxy-1-phenyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one 1-(2-benzo[b]thienyl)-7,8-diethoxy-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one 1-(2-benzo[b]thienyl)-7,8-diethoxy-5-n-propyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one 7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-1-(1-naphthyl)-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one 3-benzyl-7,8-dimethoxy-1-phenyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one 3-dodecyl-7,8-dimethoxy-1-phenyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one 7,8-dimethoxy-3-(12-methoxy-12-oxododecyl)-1-phenyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one 3-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-1-phenyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one 7,8-dimethoxy-1-phenyl-3-n-propyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one 1-(4-iodophenyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one 7,8-dimethoxy-1-[4-(2-methoxyphenyl)phenyl]-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one 7,8-dimethoxy-1-[4-(3-methoxyphenyl)phenyl]-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one 1-[4-(3-acetylphenyl)phenyl]-7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one 7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-1 [4-(3-pyridyl)phenyl]-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one 1-[4-(4-acetylphenyl)phenyl]-7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one 1-[4-(3-acetamidophenyl)phenyl]-7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one 1-(4-bromophenyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one 7,8-dimethoxy-1-[4-(4-methoxyphenyl)phenyl]-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one 1-{4-[3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]phenyl}-7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one 7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-1-[4-(2-methylphenyl)phenyl]-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one 7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-1-[4-(3-methylphenyl)phenyl]-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one 7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-1-[4-(4-methylphenyl)phenyl]-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one 1-[4-(4-chlorophenyl)phenyl]-7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one 7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-1-[4-(2-thienyl)phenyl]-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one 1-{4-[3,5-bis-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]phenyl}-7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one 1-[4-(heptyn-1-yl)phenyl]-7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one 7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-1-[4-(3-nitrophenyl)phenyl]-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one 1-(2-benzo[b]thienyl)-7,8-diethoxy-3-ethyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one 1-(2-benzo[b]thienyl)-7,8-diethoxy-3-methyl-5-n-propyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one 3,5-dibenzyl-7,8-dimethoxy-1-phenyl-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one 7,8-dimethoxy-1-phenyl-3-(3-hydroxypropyl)-3,5-dihydro-4H-2,3-benzodiazepin-4-one 7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 7,8-dimethoxy-5-(3,4-dimethoxyphenyl)-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 5-(2-benzo[b]thienyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 5-(3-chlorophenyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 5-(2-benzo[b]furyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 5-(2-furyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 5-(4-acetylphenyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-5-(2-thienyl)-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 7,8-dimethoxy-5-(3-methoxyphenyl)-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 7,8-dimethoxy-5-(2-methoxyphenyl)-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 5-(5-indolyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 5-(6-benzyloxy-2-naphthyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 7,8-dimethoxy-5-(6-methoxy-2-naphthyl)-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 5-(2-indolyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-5-(piperidin-1-yl)-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-5-(2-methylphenyl)-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 7,8-dimethoxy-5-(4-methoxyphenyl)-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 5-(1,1′-biphenyl-3-yl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 5-(4-bromophenyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 5-(4-bromophenyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 8-bromo-5-(4-bromophenyl)-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 7-iodo-5-[3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 7-methoxy-5-[3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 1-benzyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 7,8-diethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1-propyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 7,8-diethoxy-1-methyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 7,8-diethoxy-1-ethyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one ethyl (7,8-diethoxy-2-oxo-5-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-1-yl)acetate 10-phenyl-2,3,6,8-tetrahydro-7H-[1,4] dioxino [2,3-h][1,4]benzodiazepin-7-one 1-benzyl-7,8-diethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 7,8-diethoxy-3-methyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 3-benzyl-7,8-diethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 1-ethyl-7,8-dihydroxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 5-(4-bromophenyl)-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 5-(3-bromophenyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 5-(3-bromophenyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 5-(3-bromophenyl)-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 5-{4-[3-(benzyloxy)prop-1-ynyl]phenyl}-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one tert-butyl 3-[4-(1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-5-yl)phenyl]prop-2-ynylcarbamate 5-(1,1′-biphenyl-4-yl)-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 3-(4-chlorobenzyl)-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-[4-(phenylethynyl)phenyl]-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 3-allyl-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-3-prop-2-ynyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-[4-(2-phenylethyl)phenyl]-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one ethyl (1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-2-oxo-5-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-3-yl)acetate 1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-[3-(phenylethynyl)phenyl]-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 5-(2-bromophenyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one (1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-2-oxo-5-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-3-yl)acetonitrile 3-(2-bromobenzyl)-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 3-(4-bromobenzyl)-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 3-[(3-bromophenyl)(hydroxy)methyl]-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 3-(3-bromobenzyl)-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 3-(1,1′-biphenyl-4-ylmethyl)-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 3-(1-benzyl-4-hydroxypiperidin-4-yl)-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 3-(4-chlorobenzyl)-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 3-[(1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-2-oxo-5-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-3-yl)methyl]benzonitrile 3-benzyl-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-3-(2-methoxybenzyl)-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 3-[(1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-2-oxo-5-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-3-yl)methyl]benzamide 3-[3-(aminomethyl)benzyl]-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 3-(1,1′-biphenyl-3-ylmethyl)-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 3-benzyl-7,8-diethoxy-1-ethyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 2-(1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-2-oxo-5-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-3-yl)acetamide 3-(2-chlorobenzyl)-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-3-(2-methylbenzyl)-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 8-ethoxy-7-methoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 8-ethoxy-7-methoxy-1-methyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-3-[3-(trifluoromethyl) benzyl]-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-3-(3-methoxybenzyl)-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-3-(4-methylbenzyl)-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 3-[1,2-bis(4-bromophenyl)ethyl]-1-ethyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 3-[(8-ethoxy-7-methoxy-1-methyl-2-oxo-5-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-3-yl)methyl]benzonitrile 2-[(8-ethoxy-7-methoxy-1-methyl-2-oxo-5-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-3-yl)methyl]benzonitrile 3-[(8-ethoxy-7-methoxy-1-methyl-2-oxo-5-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-3-yl)methyl]benzamide 8-methoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 7-methoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 7-methoxy-1-methyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 8-methoxy-1-methyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 7,8-dimethoxy-5-(4-fluorophenyl)-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-5-(4-pyridyl)-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-5-(3, 5 bis trifluoromethylphenyl)-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 7,8-dimethoxy-5-(4-N,N-dimethylaminophenyl)-1-methyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-5-[(E)-2-phenylethenyl]-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-5-(2-phenylethynyl)-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-5-(N-tetrahydro-1,2,3,4-isoquinolyl)-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 7,8-dimethoxy-3-isobutyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 3-benzyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 7,8-dimethoxy-3-methyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 7,8-dimethoxy-3-(1H-imidazol-4-ylmethyl)-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 7,8-dimethoxy-3-(1H-indol-3-ylmethyl)-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 7,8-dimethoxy-3-(2-methylthioethyl)-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H— 1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one (S) 3-benzyl-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one (S)-3-benzyl-7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H— 1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 7,8-dimethoxy-1-methyl-5-(2-phenylethyl)-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one (7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-3-yl)benzyl(S)-butylcarbamate (S)-3-(4-aminobutyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one (S)-N-[4-(7,8-dimethoxy-2-oxo-5-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-3-yl)butyl]acetamide N-[4-(7,8-dimethoxy-2-oxo-5-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-3-yl)butyl]guanidinium (S)-bis trifluoroacetate 7,8-dimethoxy-1-ethyl-3-(2-nitrobenzyl)-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 3-(3,5-dibromobenzyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-ethyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 7,8-dimethoxy-3-(diphenylhydroxymethyl)-1-ethyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 7,8-dimethoxy-1-ethyl-3-(E-3-phenylpropen-2yl)-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 7,8-dimethoxy-1-ethyl-3-(2-aminobenzyl)-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 7,8-dimethoxy-1-(2-hydroxyethyl)-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 3-(2-cyanobenzyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-ethyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one N-[2-(7,8-dimethoxy-2-oxo-5-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-3-yl)benzyl] acetamide 3-(2-aminomethylbenzyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-ethyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one [(7,8-dimethoxy-1-ethyl-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-3-yl)benz-2-yl]carboxamide N-[2-(7,8-dimethoxy-2-oxo-5-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,4-benzodiazepin-3-yl)benzyl]methylacetamide 7,8-dimethoxy-3,5-diphenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 3-(2,4-dichlorobenzyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-ethyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 3-(2,5-dichlorobenzyl)-7,8-dimethoxy-1-ethyl-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 3,5-diphenyl-8-ethoxy-7-methoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 3-benzyl-8-ethoxy-7-methoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 3-benzyl-8-ethoxy-1-ethyl-7-methoxy-5-phenyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 3,5-diphenyl-8-ethoxy-1-ethyl-7-methoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one 5-phenyl-7-ethoxy-8-methoxy-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one and the salts thereof.
 18. Composition comprising a compound according to any one of claims 1 to 17 and a pharmaceutically acceptable vehicle or excipient.
 19. Use of a compound according to any one of claims 1 to 17 for preparing a medicament designed to inhibit a cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase.
 20. Use of a compound according to any one of claims 1 to 17 for preparing a medicament for treating an inflammatory pathology of the central nervous system.
 21. Use of a compound according to any one of claims 1 to 17 for preparing a medicament for treating neuroinflammation.
 22. Use of a compound according to any one of claims 1 to 17 for preparing a medicament for treating the inflammatory component of depression.
 23. Use of a compound according to any one of claims 1 to 17 for preparing a medicament for treating the inflammatory component of obesity.
 24. Method for preparing a compound according to claim 3 wherein Z is an oxygen atom by reacting a compound represented by formula (VI)

wherein R₁, R₆, R_(6′), R₇ and R₈ are defined as in claim 1 with an alkyl halogenide in the presence of potassium carbonate at room temperature.
 25. Method according to claim 24, wherein the compound represented by general formula (VI) is obtained by a method comprising the following steps: a) reacting a compound represented by general formula (IV)

 wherein R₆, R_(6′), R₇ and R₈ are defined as in claim 1, wich a compound containing an acyl group having the formula R₁CO to obtain a compound represented by formula (V)

 wherein R₁, R₆, R_(6′), R₇ and R₈ are defined as hereinabove; b) reacting the compound represented by formula (V) with hydrazine to give a compound represented by formula (VI) wherein R₁, R₆, R_(6′), R₇ and R₈ are defined as hereinabove.
 26. Method for preparing a compound according to claim 3 wherein Z is an oxygen atom by reacting a compound represented by general formula (V) such as defined in claim 25 in the presence of a substituted hydrazine, preferably methylhydrazine.
 27. Method for preparing a compound according to claim 3 wherein Z is an oxygen atom from a compound represented by general formula (XIV)

wherein R₄, R₆, R_(6′), R₇ and R₈ are defined as in claim 1, and G is an activator group, such as a halogen or an O-triflate group, by a palladium coupling reaction in the presence of boronic, d'alcyn-1-yl acid or ester or organometallic acid or ester such as organozincics or organostannans.
 28. Method for preparing a compound according to claim 3 wherein Z is a sulfur atom comprising reacting a compound according to claim 3 wherein Z is an oxygen atom with Lawesson reagent in toluene under reflux.
 29. Method for preparing a compound according to claim 2 wherein Z is an oxygen atom by reacting a compound represented by general formula (XVIII):

wherein R₄, R_(4′), R₆, R₇ and R₈ are defined as in claim 1 and G is an activator group such as a halogen, with an acid compound of group R1 in the presence of a palladium catalyst.
 30. Method for preparing a compound according to claim 2 wherein Z is an oxygen atom by reacting a compound represented by general formula (XXII):

wherein R₁, R₄, R₄, R₇ and R₈ are defined as in claim 1, with an alkyl halogenide, preferably in a solvent, in the presence of a base and preferably at room temperature. 